Crystal Palace Faces 23-Day Break Following AEK Larnaca Match
Crystal Palace face a long spell without a match after Thursday’s tie with AEK Larnaca. The result will shape whether Oliver Glasner’s side have a trophy to pursue in his final season at Selhurst Park.
Scheduling causes extended pause
The current calendar creates a 23-day gap between the AEK Larnaca game and Palace’s next fixture. The next scheduled match is a Premier League meeting with Newcastle at Selhurst Park.
If Palace win and reach the Europa Conference League quarter-finals, the gap drops to 21 days. The potential opponent would be Fiorentina or Rakow in the quarter-final stage.
Why the break exists
The Carabao Cup final between Manchester City and Arsenal falls on the same weekend Palace were due to face City. Palace had been set to play Manchester City on Saturday 21st March.
That scheduling clash, followed by an international break, creates the long pause. An FA Cup weekend follows, but Palace are absent after a third-round defeat to Macclesfield.
Match details and wider context
The AEK Larnaca match will be refereed by Aliyar Aghayev. Palace arrive after two recent 0-0 draws, against AEK Larnaca and Leeds United.
Glasner has attracted criticism, including a call-out from Zrinjski Mostar. Supporters will watch this fixture closely for signs of momentum.
Training and recovery at Copers Cope
The long break could be used for focused work at Copers Cope. Coaches can address weaknesses and freshen the squad during the downtime.
If Palace advance, the 21-day spell will act as a short pre-season. If eliminated, a 23-day gap may feel like the season stalling for fans.
Historical perspective on long pauses
The Palacetician on X notes a potential 23-day gap would rank among the club’s longest breaks. The record stands at 105 days during the COVID-19 shutdown.
Other notable interruptions include a 35-day hiatus in 1962/63 during the ‘Big Freeze’. The 2022/23 season featured a 44-day gap for the World Cup in Qatar. That campaign also included a 28-day break after the death of Queen Elizabeth II and an international window.
Whether seen as an opportunity or a setback, the extended break will shape Palace’s final months. Fans and staff now await Thursday’s result and the schedule that follows.
