Crystal Palace vs Fredrikstad Preview and How to Watch Live | OneFootball

Crystal Palace Face Fredrikstad in Conference League Qualifier

Crystal Palace begin their European adventure on Thursday night as they welcome Norwegian side Fredrikstad to Selhurst Park in the first leg of their Conference League qualifier. For Palace, it marks an historic moment, though it comes with frustration after UEFA’s ruling that placed the club in Europe’s third-tier competition despite their Europa League qualification through last season’s FA Cup victory over Manchester City.

Historic Meeting at Selhurst Park

This is the first-ever meeting between Crystal Palace and Fredrikstad, and the atmosphere in south London is expected to reflect the scale of the occasion. Manager Oliver Glasner is preparing to name a strong line-up despite uncertainty surrounding key players.

Photo: IMAGO

Eberechi Eze continues to attract serious interest from Arsenal and Marc Guehi is linked strongly with Liverpool, yet both remain central to Palace’s preparations for this vital fixture. Their influence could be decisive in establishing control of the tie.

Fredrikstad’s Final Chance at Europe

Fredrikstad arrive with European football on the line after suffering a heavy defeat against Midtjylland in Europa League qualification. Their only chance of competing on the continental stage this season rests on progressing through this Conference League tie.

The Norwegian side will need to improve defensively after conceding five goals in their last outing, while also finding ways to disrupt Palace’s rhythm at Selhurst Park. They are likely to adopt a cautious approach and look to capitalise on counter-attacking opportunities.

How to Watch Crystal Palace vs Fredrikstad

For fans eager to follow this historic clash, coverage will be widely accessible.

TV channel: The game will be broadcast live in the UK on Channel 5, with coverage beginning at 7.30pm BST ahead of the 8pm kick-off.

Live stream: Viewers can also watch online through channel5.com, ensuring supporters have the option of both television and digital access.

This makes Palace’s return to European competition easy to follow for fans across the country.

Key Storylines to Watch

All eyes will be on how Palace balance domestic commitments with their European ambitions. Glasner’s tactical influence has already shaped performances in the Premier League, and this tie is an opportunity to demonstrate depth and resilience.

Fredrikstad will treat this as a chance at redemption. Their defeat against Midtjylland was a setback, but a disciplined performance in London could keep the tie alive heading into the second leg in Norway.

For Palace supporters, this night carries significance beyond the scoreline. It is their first step in European football in a generation, and potentially the beginning of a campaign that builds confidence and momentum for the season ahead.