Fiorentina (h) preview
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Crystal Palace stand on the brink of a historic European breakthrough as they prepare to face Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League quarterfinals—a game that both hosts Ben and Matt Watts describe as the biggest of the season. Despite Fiorentina’s recent struggles in Serie A and their underwhelming squad of former Premier League rejects, the hosts emphasize that this is no ordinary tie. They highlight Palace’s remarkable rise from being a club once overlooked in European competition to now being genuine contenders, fueled by a mix of emerging talent, tactical discipline, and a manager under pressure to deliver. The episode is laced with nostalgia—Roy Hodgson’s surprise return to management at 78, Mark Guehi’s captaincy for England, and the emotional weight of Jean-Philippe Mateta’s redemption arc—while also dissecting the tactical nuances of the upcoming clash. With a sellout at Selhurst Park expected and a squad loaded with international experience, the hosts believe Palace are favorites, but caution that the real test lies in the second leg in Florence, where they must prove they can win away from home. The focus isn’t just on the match—it’s on legacy, identity, and proving that Palace belong among Europe’s elite.
Palace are favorites to beat Fiorentina despite their Serie A struggles, with a strong away record and European experience.
Jean-Philippe Mateta has a prime opportunity to redeem himself in the biggest game of the season and re-earn fan and national team favor.
Jeremy Pied’s strong performances in Spain and Europe make him a strong contender to start over Evan Gesson.
Oliver Glasner’s job security hinges on Conference League success—this is his chance to cement legacy beyond the FA Cup.
The first leg at Selhurst Park is a sellout; fans are urged to bring energy and noise to create a 'fervent' atmosphere.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
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International Break Reflection
Hosts reflect on Crystal Palace’s strong international representation, with standout performances from Maxence Lacroix, Daichi Kamada, Ismail Assar, and Evan Gesson.
Mixed Fortunes: Players & Teams
Positive results for Lacroix, Kamada, Assar, and Gesson contrast with Brennan Johnson’s penalty miss and fatigue concerns, while youth teams and women’s side show promise.
Roy Hodgson’s Return to Football
“He didn't get into football management to do press conferences. I did it to get on the grass and train football players.”
Mark Guehi’s Captaincy & Legacy
“He's beaten them in the Premier League and he's also beaten them in the FA Cup. I must admit, I do still find it a little bit strange seeing Mark Guehi playing in the FA Cup.”
“I didn't get into football management to do press conferences. I did it to get on the grass and train football players.”
“If we do win this competition, if we are victorious in Leipzig in May, then a lot of that will once again be forgotten about very quickly because he will be the guy who won us the FA Cup.”
“For me, this is the biggest game of the season so far. And this is the sort of game that even a few years ago, we couldn't have possibly dreamt of this game.”
Hosts
ben watts
person
matt watts
person
fiorentina
other
oliver glasner
person
roy hodgson
person
jean-philippe mateta
person
maxence lacroix
person
mark guehi
person
evan gesson
person
ismail assar
person
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