AEK Larnaca host Crystal Palace at the AEK Arena – George Karapatakis on Thursday for the second leg of their Conference League last-16 tie.
The first leg at Selhurst Park ended in a goalless draw, leaving the tie finely poised and giving Larnaca a chance to complete a giant-killing on home soil.
Larnaca enter the tie with confidence, having remained unbeaten in the Conference League this season. Manager Javi Rozada has strengthened the team’s defensive resilience, conceding just one goal across seven matches.
The Yellow-Greens will aim to harness their home advantage and defensive solidity to overcome the Premier League side.
Crystal Palace face a challenging task in Cyprus. Despite dominating the first leg with over 70% possession and 13 shots, the Eagles failed to find a breakthrough.
Manager Oliver Glasner will look for his side to rediscover their clinical edge, with key players such as Morgan Gibbs-White and Jorgen Strand Larsen expected to lead the attack. Palace’s Premier League quality gives them an edge, but they will need to navigate Larnaca’s defensive strength to progress.
What time does AEK Larnaca vs Crystal Palace start?
Kick-off is at 8:45 PM (EAT) on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at AEK Arena – George Karapatakis.
AEK Larnaca vs Crystal Palace team news
Larnaca will be without Jorge Miramon (calf) and several other injured players, including Valentin Roberge (finger), Youssef Amyn (hamstring), Giorgos Naoum (muscle), and Jimmy Suarez (groin).
Petros Ionannu is likely to deputise at right wing-back, with Angel Garcia starting on the opposite side. Riad Bajic, who scored in the League Phase win over Palace, is expected to lead the line.
Crystal Palace are missing Eddie Nketiah (thigh) and Cheick Doucoure (knee), while Dean Henderson (illness) and Daniel Munoz (shoulder) are doubts. Brennan Johnson could again play as a makeshift right wing-back.
Jorgen Strand Larsen is likely to start as the lone striker, with Morgan Gibbs-White supporting from an advanced midfield role.
Predicted Lineups
- AEK Larnaca possible starting XI: Alomerovic; Ionannu, Milicevic, Saborit, Ekpolo, Garcia; Rohden, Ledes, Pons, Ivanovic; Bajic
- Crystal Palace possible starting XI: Henderson; Richards, Lacroix, Canvot; Johnson, Kamada, Wharton, Mitchell; Sarr, Guessand; Strand Larsen
AEK Larnaca vs Crystal Palace head-to-head record
The first leg ended 0-0 at Selhurst Park. Larnaca hold a psychological edge, having avoided defeat in both meetings this season.
They remain unbeaten in the Conference League under Rozada, while Palace have struggled to convert chances in Europe, though their Premier League experience gives them a quality advantage.
AEK Larnaca vs Crystal Palace prediction
Larnaca will rely on defensive resilience and home support to frustrate Palace, but the Eagles’ superior quality should eventually shine through. Expect a tense, low-scoring encounter, with Crystal Palace narrowly prevailing to reach the quarter-finals.
