Journalist: Crystal Palace Streak Explained as Unbeaten Run Hits 17 Matches | OneFootball

Crystal Palace’s Remarkable Run Shows Glasner’s Vision

Crystal Palace’s unbeaten run now stands at 17 matches across all competitions, a sequence that stretches back to April and includes a memorable FA Cup final win over Manchester City and a Community Shield triumph over Liverpool. For a club historically seen as a mid-table survivor, this is a record worthy of serious attention. As The Athletic highlighted, this is their second-longest unbeaten streak ever, behind only the 18-game run of 1969.

Defensive Foundations Setting Standards

Oliver Glasner’s tactical clarity has been key. “Much of what they do has come from Glasner instilling a clear tactical plan, relying on players who are familiar with the way he wants to operate and prioritising the team over individual success. He is not afraid to cast aside anyone whose decisions are not in the best interests of the collective.” That mentality has shaped a defence that is now one of the most reliable in the league.

Marc Guehi continues to lead with intelligence, Maxence Lacroix brings speed and recovery tackles, while Chris Richards offers aerial dominance and consistency. The Athletic praised Richards’ display at West Ham, noting how he “kept Crysencio Summerville at bay, shepherding him into less dangerous areas and providing cover for goalkeeper Dean Henderson.” Henderson’s low saves-per-game average shows just how well protected he is by the back three.

Glasner has kept his structure tight, allowing Palace to strike in transition. With Destiny Udogie-style dynamism coming from their wing-backs and Ismaila Sarr driving forward, Palace have become one of the most dangerous counter-attacking sides in the division.

Photo: IMAGO

Familiarity Driving Confidence

Continuity has underpinned this surge. “The players believe in what we are doing and they know. It’s about keeping calm and defending well — we’ve been doing this really well for months,” Glasner said after the West Ham win. Palace’s core squad has stayed together, with just Eberechi Eze leaving for Arsenal in the summer. The recruitment of five targeted signings has helped maintain balance without disrupting chemistry.

Glasner prefers a smaller squad, coaching them relentlessly to execute his plan. That clarity has turned a club with the smallest budget among the established Premier League teams into a side sitting fourth in the table.

Mateta Leading the Line

Jean-Philippe Mateta has been integral. His goal at West Ham was his 50th for the club, with 34 coming in 68 matches under Glasner. His hold-up play has evolved, allowing Palace to sustain attacks and bring midfield runners into play.

Interest in Mateta is inevitable, but Palace are determined to keep him beyond 2027. Extending his deal is seen as crucial to maintaining their upward trajectory.

Photo: IMAGO

Champions League Talk Growing Louder

When asked about targeting Champions League qualification, Glasner laughed and dismissed the suggestion. Yet the question reflects how far Palace have come. Sitting fourth in the table, competing with established giants, and going unbeaten for nearly half a season shows they are no longer outsiders.

Liverpool visit Selhurst Park next, a fixture that will test this run to its limits, but Palace’s resilience and collective belief make them a match for anyone.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Crystal Palace supporters will be relishing this moment. This unbeaten run is not a fluke, it is the result of a team that knows exactly what it is supposed to do and a manager who has drilled them into one of the most organised units in the league. Fans who once expected a relegation scrap now dare to dream about European nights at Selhurst Park.

Mateta has become a cult hero. His ability to hold off defenders, occupy centre-backs and finish with authority is everything Palace have craved in a striker. If the club can tie him down to a longer deal and resist offers, they may continue to climb the table.

Glasner’s measured approach appeals to the fanbase. There is no talk of getting ahead of themselves, no grandiose promises, just consistent work. Palace fans are starting to believe this team can mix it with the elite, and if this form continues through the winter, that Champions League question will need to be asked again.