My piece for RantSports on Crystal Palace vs. Manchester City
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The two teams that are top of the Premier League table face off in this fixture. Crystal Palace will be looking to beat Manchester City with their tactical approach, while City will hope superior talent sees them through. Here are five key matchups for Crystal Palace vs. Manchester City.
5. Yohan Cabaye vs. Yaya Toure
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It doesn’t seem like a fair matchup in physical terms, but both Yohan Cabaye and Yaya Toure play similar roles for their clubs. Toure has been in great form to start but that’s on the offensive end. Cabaye is solid on both ends, and if Toure loses concentration then Cabaye will be free to do damage offensively.
4. Aleksandr Kolarov vs. Yannick Bolasie
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Yannick Bolasie’s flair and unpredictability make him a tough man to mark. Aleksandr Kolarov has the strength to bother the Congo attacker, but if it comes down to pace then Bolasie gets the nod. Kolarov will have to be wary not to leave too much space for Bolasie to work with.
3. Sergio Aguero vs. Scott Dann
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Shutting down Sergio Aguero is key to any chance of success for Manchester City’s opponents. Scott Dann will be tasked with keeping a close eye on the Argentinian. Dann won’t be expected to get the better of Aguero in one-on-one situations but marshaling him to less dangerous areas will be just as beneficial for Palace.
2. Bakary Sako vs. Bacary Sagna
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Bakary Sako has had a big impact since he’s appeared for Crystal Palace. He’s been another wing threat with dribbling skills, pace and has shown himself to be a goal threat. Bacary Sagna has shown of the form that once made him the league’s best right-back. It will be an interesting battle.
1. David Silva vs. James McArthur
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David Silva is in fine form for club and country right now. James McArthur will have to take on a more defensive role to keep track of Silva. If McArthur can stifle Silva then the onus will be on City’s other attackers to make a difference.
Always Thinking Football 