Why Leeds United must hope Crystal Palace luck doesn't change amid Premier League reveal
Crystal Palace are one of the most frustrating teams in the Premier League ahead of their clash with Leeds United.
The Eagles have been on somewhat of a steady decline over the last few years.
Indeed, they've now endured three successive Premier League finishes in which their final league position has been worse than the term prior.
Now under the management of Pierre Sage, Palace currently sit 16th with one win from their opening four games in 2026-27.
As a result, pressure is already starting to grow on the Sage's shoulders despite only being six games into his Selhurst Park tenure.
However, Leeds' opponents on Sunday could so easily be considerably higher up the table.
The two key metrics that sum up Crystal Palace's season so far ahead of Leeds
If you want to be a successful team in the Premier League, being clinical in front of goal is essential.
Chances are often at a premium at this level, and wastefulness in the final third is an essential ingredient to a hugely disappointing season.
When it comes to Crystal Palace this season, the frustration surrounding them arises from how obviously close they are to being a very good side.
On the flip side, however, no team in the top flight has missed more big chances than Palace's 11, meaning they've only converted three of them.
If that pattern was to suddenly change at Elland Road on Sunday, then Daniel Farke's side could be in for a long afternoon.
Regardless of how Palace perform in these areas this weekend, the numbers also suggest Elland Road will witness a real slug fest between these two sides.
Why Palace can match Leeds in the physical aspects
When you think of classic, old-school Premier League tussles, Leeds and Crystal Palace don't instantly spring to mind as a pairing.
Of course, both clubs have spent considerable time outside of the top flight this century.
But the data from this season so far strongly points towards Sunday's clash being a very physical one indeed, which suits both teams.
Per FotMob, Leeds sit second in the Premier League for their 10.8 interceptions per game, with Palace fourth on 10.0.
Meanwhile, no side averages more tackles won per game (23.8) than the Eagles, but the Whites do sit fourth on 18.3.
Leeds lead the top flight for clearances per game with 35.0, whilst Sage's side are sixth on 29.5.
Palace are also joint-second for possessions won in the final third per match with 5.3, so Leeds' backline will have to be sharp on Sunday.