Crystal Palace continue their European campaign with a home fixture against 1899 Hoffenheim on Thursday. The Europa League League Stage match kicks off at 17:45 at Selhurst Park.
The game offers a change of focus from a challenging Premier League season. Palace currently sit 18th in the domestic table with just seven points from nine games, having lost 2-0 away to Tottenham last time out. Their recent form across all competitions shows one win, one draw and three losses from the last five. Their league record of two wins, one draw and six defeats has left them 17 points behind the leaders, Arsenal, and they have scored only nine goals while conceding 21. The 2-0 loss at Tottenham on Saturday 31 October was preceded by a 1-0 win at Fulham on Wednesday 28 October, a 2-0 home defeat to Newcastle, a 2-2 draw with Beşiktaş, and a 5-0 loss at Brighton.
Hoffenheim arrive in London in strong form, having won three of their last five Bundesliga matches, including a 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen. Their last outing was a 2-0 defeat to Werder Bremen. The German side's recent starting lineup featured experienced players like Baumann in goal and Kramarić in midfield.
Palace manager Patrick Vieira is expected to field a strong side, likely building on the team that started against Tottenham. That lineup included Henderson, Richards, Disasi and Jean-Charles Castelletto in defence, with Wharton and Kamada in midfield. The attack was led by Mateta, supported by McNeil and Yeremy Pino. Eddie Nketiah, who scored the winner at Fulham, will also be an option.
Success in Europe could provide a vital boost for the squad.
Thursday's match is the fourth of the Europa League's League Stage. A win would be a significant step towards the knockout rounds for Crystal Palace.
