Borussia Mönchengladbach U21

Premier League International Cup

Leeds United

Premier League

Crystal Palace

Selhurst Park

Newcastle United

West Ham United

Crystal Palace U21

Total shots

Shots on target

Corners

Passes completed

Free kicks

Offsides

Knowing only victory by a two-goal margin would secure advancement, the young Eagles rose to the challenge in difficult, blustery conditions.

After a competitive opening, Palace seized control as the first half wore on. Dylan Reid opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Benji Casey was fouled inside the area, before Casey doubled the lead a few minutes later, reacting sharply to convert from close range following Charlie Walker-Smith’s clever hook back into the box.

The second half certainly tested our defensive resolve. Gladbach applied sustained pressure, striking the crossbar and drawing a superb diving save from Jackson Izquierdo, while Tyler Whyte produced a vital goal-line clearance to protect the advantage. 

Palace remained disciplined and compact through the closing stages to secure a deserved win and a place in the last eight.

Scroll through the gallery below to relive the key moments, captured by our club photographer.

Crystal Palace Under-21s produced a scintillating display to defeat Borussia Mönchengladbach 2-0 at the VBS Community Stadium on Wednesday evening, sealing top spot in Group B and progression to the Premier League International Cup quarter-finals.

Gallery: The best photos from Palace’s International Cup win over Mönchengladbach

Crystal Palace U21 v Borussia Mönchengladbach U21 (2026-02-18)

I want to show what I can do against these European teams

Casey reflected on the performance: “I think it was an amazing performance from the team. We worked hard as a team as well.

“The communication was good, we competed for second balls and we looked out for each other as well. At the end of the day, football is a team game – it’s not individual – and I think what we did today was play as a team, and we got the result that we wanted.”

“So yeah, it was an overall great performance from the team.”

With five minutes of the half remaining, Palace doubled their lead. Dylan Reid’s free-kick was initially headed clear, but after a series of aerial challenges the ball dropped into the path of Walker-Smith, who cleverly hooked it over the Gladbach backline.

Casey reacted sharply, meeting it with a sweet half-volley from close range to claim his third goal of the competition.

He talked us through the goal amid the extremely testing conditions: “I just knew that when the ball came to Charlie – he’s been playing with me for quite a while now – and he knows that when it comes to those positions, I always like to run off the back of defenders.

“It was a nice little pass from him, and I just had to gauge the height of the ball. Once the ball came down, I was like, ‘I’m just going to hit it,’ and I hit it perfectly and it went in. So I was just happy – it was good.”

Casey boasts an impressive three goals and one assist in the International Cup group stages.

On what he loves about the competition: “Just playing against different teams from different places is a great experience, and I want to show what I can do against those teams.

“I’ve shown that by scoring three goals, so it’s been great. I love it, I love the competition, and I’m happy that we’re going through to the knockout stages now, so it was good.”

It was mentally draining for everyone, but we got the win

Having scored twice before the interval, Palace had roughly 60 minutes to protect their two-goal lead – and with it their place in the knockout stages, knowing a win by two or more goals was required.

On how physically and mentally demanding that proved: “Yeah, it was mad. Everyone was working harder, and everyone was so tired because the first half took a lot out of us. We knew that Borussia Mönchengladbach were going to come with passion and power, and we knew that was going to happen.

“But as I said, we worked as a team and we just prevented them from scoring. We knew that we had to win by two goals, but we didn’t really think about that too much. It was just all about winning and working as a team, and we did it perfectly in the second half.

“So it was mentally draining for everyone, but we got the win, so it was good.”

The result followed Friday’s 2-1 Premier League 2 victory over Fulham, which ended the Cottagers’ 13-match unbeaten run.

On how strong a position the U21s find themselves in: “Obviously, we beat Fulham, who were on a 13-game unbeaten run in Premier League 2, and now we’ve gone through to the knockout stages where some people might have written us off.

“I think we’re in great momentum. We’re in a good moment right now, winning games, and I think the only thing we need to do is just continue.

“Don’t slack off – just keep working hard and keep getting results against big teams like Fulham and Borussia Mönchengladbach, which we did. So just keep going – that’s it, really.”

A jubilant Benji Casey spoke to Palace TV+ following the young Eagles' 2-0 victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach in our must-win International Cup clash at a blustery VBS Community Stadium, reflecting on the performance, his goal and progression to the quarter-finals.

Casey: It was an amazing performance from the team

Benji Casey Talks Reaching the PL Int'l Cup Quarters

### Summary:

- Powell makes three changes to the side that beat Fulham on Friday as Jasper Judd comes in at wing-back in place of Rio Cardines, Dylan Reid replaces Kaden Rodney in midfield, and Jemiah Umolu leads the line with Zach Marsh sidelined through injury.
- 3: Benji Casey races in-behind and forces an early diving save from Pereira Cardoso.
- 7: Dylan Reid almost sees his inswinging corner sneak inside the far corner.
- 11: Dillion Berko flashes a sharp delivery across the face of goal, fortunately the sliding Uwakhonye can't convert.
- 20: Iaia Danfa miscues the pull-back the wrong side of the post.
- 27: Jemiah Umolu’s floated cross crashes against the crossbar, before he has a shot blocked in the penalty area.
- 32 – GOAL: Reid lashes the penalty into the back of the net to give Palace the lead!
- 36: Charlie Walker-Smith’s last-ditch defending prevents an immediate response from the visitors!
- 38 – GOAL: Walker-Smith lifts it over the top of the defence and Casey half-volleys beyond the ‘keeper from close-range!
- HT: Palace 2-0 Borussia Monchengladbach
- 59: Tyler Whyte makes an excellent sliding block on the line!#
- 62: Jackson Izquierdo pulls off a brilliant diving save to tip the free-kick over the bar – massive stop, Jacko!
- 69: Umolu drifts inside and drives low and hard to almost find the near corner!
- 71: Jasper Judd makes a vital last-ditch sliding block to deny a well-struck close-range effort.

  It was now edge of your seat stuff…
- 87: George King makes a quite brilliant sliding block to preserve our lead.
- Five minutes is added on…
- 90 (+2): Gladbach rattle the crossbar with a bullet header from an inswinging corner.
- FT: Palace 2-0 Borussia Monchengladbach
- We progress through to the Premier League International Cup knockouts!!!!

The young Eagles dominated Gladbach in a tense but controlled encounter, taking the lead through a calm penalty from Dylan Reid before Benji Casey doubled the advantage with a crisp half-volley. We withstood late pressure, including a goal-line block from Tyler Whyte and a brilliant diving save from Jackson Izquierdo, to secure victory and progression to the quarter-finals.

Darren Powell’s Under-21s came into Wednesday’s crucial Premier League International Cup clash on the back of a strong 2-1 PL2 victory over Fulham, ending the Cottagers’ 13-game unbeaten run.

In Europe, the young Eagles had already shown they could compete with top opposition. After a narrow 1-0 defeat to Valencia, they responded with victories over Juventus and FC Nordsjaelland to put qualification firmly within reach.

With every other side in Group B having completed their fixtures, the equation was clear under the lights in Sutton.

Palace began the night on six points, three behind both Gladbach and Valencia, who each had nine. Only a win would keep Palace in contention for the knockout stages, with goal difference also likely to prove decisive – meaning a victory by at least two goals had the potential to be significant in the final standings.

Powell made three changes to the side that beat Fulham on Friday. Jasper Judd came in at wing-back in place of Rio Cardines, Dylan Reid replaced Kaden Rodney in midfield, and Jemiah Umolu led the line with Zach Marsh sidelined through injury.

Amid driving rain and blustery conditions at the VBS, the match got underway at a sharp tempo. Both sides began with intent, and the first opening fell to Palace. Benji Casey latched onto Jasper Judd’s lofted pass in behind and tested Pereira Cardoso early, the ‘keeper reacting well to gather his low effort.

Dylan Reid then threatened directly from an inswinging corner, his delivery drifting dangerously towards the far post and forcing Cardoso to backpedal and cover it.

While Palace continued to move the ball well and probe for an opener, the visitors offered a warning sign at the other end.

Dillion Berko surged down the right channel and drilled a low ball across the face of goal, but a sliding Joshua Uwakhonye was unable to turn it into the unguarded net - perhaps put off by Jackson Izquierdo’s attempts to claw it away.

On the 20-minute mark, it remained an evenly contested encounter. Palace had fashioned a handful of promising openings, but the difficult conditions continued to play their part, with players from both sides losing their footing at crucial moments – most notably when Iaia Danfa miscued his pull-back wide of the post.

Beyond the mid-way point, Palace began to assert control as their rhythm sharpened and they moved firmly into the ascendency.

Umolu proved a constant outlet, his floated cross crashing against the crossbar with Benamar poised for the rebound. Moments later, the forward cut inside onto his stronger foot, only to see his effort blocked by a well-timed outstretched boot.

In the 32nd minute, Reid threaded a precise pass into Casey, who was clipped after cutting inside, prompting the referee to point immediately to the spot. Reid stepped up himself and swept the penalty confidently into the far corner, completely deceiving the goalkeeper to register his third goal of the International Cup campaign and hand Palace a deserved advantage.

Gladbach looked to respond swiftly, but resolute defending from Charlie Walker-Smith proved decisive, as he did just enough to unsettle Uwakhonye inside the area at a crucial moment.

With five minutes of the half remaining, Palace doubled their lead. Reid’s free-kick was initially headed clear, but after a series of aerial challenges the ball dropped to Walker-Smith, who cleverly hooked it back over the Gladbach backline. Casey reacted sharply, meeting it with a sweet half-volley from close range to claim his third goal of the competition.

Palace headed into the interval two goals to the good after an accomplished first-half display.

Palace began the second half knowing the current scoreline would be enough to secure progression to the knockout stages. However, the restart proved stop-start in nature, with play briefly halted to allow Umolu to receive treatment, before we resumed a few minutes later.

The contest had grown cagey, with Gladbach probing for a way back into the game. On the hour mark, Tyler Whyte timed his run perfectly to make a superb sliding block on the line, denying what looked to be a certain goal.

Under sustained pressure, the visitors earned a free-kick just outside the area. Fritz Fleck curled a dangerous effort over the wall, only for Jackson Izquierdo to produce a brilliant diving save, tipping the ball over the bar.

For much of the second half  up to this stage, play had largely been confined to our half. However, in the 70th minute, Umolu drifted inside and fired a shot that skimmed just inches past the near post. Gladbach countered at pace immediately after, but Jasper Judd was on hand with an excellent sliding block to deny a well-struck effort from close range.

As Palace entered the final third, appeals for a penalty rang out when Casey was bundled over just yards from goal as he prepared to pull the trigger, but the referee waved them away. The match had now reached edge-of-your-seat intensity.

The fourth official signalled five minutes of added time and Gladbach came close to snatching a lifeline, rattling the crossbar with a bullet header from an inswinging corner – a heart-in-mouth moment, as a leveller would have seen us eliminated.

Fortunately, Palace held on to their two-goal lead, securing progression into the Premier League International Cup quarter-finals having topped Group B on goal difference – and deservedly so, following a thoroughly extremely impressive performance.

**Palace:** Izquierdo, Judd, Walker-Smith, King, Reid, Whyte, Gibbard, Umolu (Brownlie, 80'), Williams, Casey (Dashi, 89'), Benamar.

**Subs not used:** Lee, Agbinone, Adams-Collman, Martin.

**Borussia Monchengladbach:** Pereira Cardoso, Uwakhonye, Valifard (Nguefack, 45'), Michaelis, Danfa, Berko (Muradian, 49'), Lieder, Fleck, Stange, Meiser, Vidic.

**Subs not used:** Dimmer, Adozi, Woersdoerfer, Koukkumaeki, Horvat.

Crystal Palace Under-21s produced a scintillating display to defeat Borussia Mönchengladbach 2-0, securing their place in the knockout stages of the Premier League International Cup on Wednesday evening at the VBS Community Stadium.

U21s Report & Highlights: Brilliant Palace beat Gladbach to reach International Cup last eight

Crystal Palace 2-0 Borussia Mönchengladbach | U21 Highlights

Ahead of the must-win clash, Jackson Izquierdo, Kai-Reece Adams Collman and Rylan Brownlie shared their thoughts on the challenge posed by the German side, the unique nature of the competition, and the importance of backing from the stands and at home.

*The match will be streamed live on Palace TV+ on Wednesday evening (18th February, 19:00 GMT) – [**click HERE to learn more about Palace TV+ and subscribe today!**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/palace-tv-plus/)*

*Can’t watch live? Follow live commentary on our **Academy X (Twitter) page**, with a full match report and reaction available shortly after full-time in our **Academy news section**.*

***Highlights*** *and **reaction*** *will also be available on [**Palace TV+**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/).*

[BUY TICKETS HERE](https://www.eticketing.co.uk/cpfc/EDP/Event/Index/869?position=1)

BUY BORUSSIA MONCHENGLADBACH TICKETS HERE

It’s going to be a tough, physical game

While knowledge of the opposition is limited, the players are fully aware of the different challenge Mönchengladbach will present. Kai-Reece Adams Collman expects a contest that will test Palace in unfamiliar ways.

“I know they’re a German side and that they’ll come with different challenges,” he said. “But I know we’ll be able to work it out on the pitch.”

Jackson Izquierdo highlighted the senior experience within the opposition ranks, with Mönchengladbach II competing in German men’s football.

“For a start, they’re German, so they’re going to know the dark arts,” he explained. “They’ve probably played in men’s leagues before, so it’s going to be a tough, physical game. But we’re a physical team as well.”

For Rylan Brownlie, the unknown only adds to the excitement.

“All I know is they’re a German side, so I’m expecting a hard-working team,” he said. “I don’t know too much about them, so I’m just excited to get going.”

It’s a different type of football and that’s what makes it exciting

The Premier League International Cup offers a markedly different experience to domestic football, something all three players have embraced. Adams Collman pointed to the contrasting tactical demands.

“You get to play international teams, which is always a good challenge,” he said. “English teams are often about transitions and counters, but international sides tend to be more possession-based. It’s a different type of football and that’s what makes it exciting.”

Izquierdo echoed those sentiments, noting the variety the competition brings.

“You’re playing foreign teams with completely different styles to English football,” he said. “We’ve already seen that in the group stages. We’ll do our prep and make sure we’re ready for whatever comes.”

Brownlie added that the element of uncertainty heightens the occasion.

“They’re unknown because they’re a foreign team,” he explained. “You don’t always know their shape or how they’ll set up, so it’s more exciting than anything.”

With so much riding on Wednesday’s clash, the players were unanimous on how important supporter backing will be – whether in the stands at Sutton or watching live on Palace TV+.

“I feel like it helps everyone,” Adams Collman said. “The more support we have, the better we’ll play.”

Izquierdo agreed: “It’s massive. We can see them when we’re playing and we know when they’re there. Any support really helps.”

Brownlie summed it up simply: “It just juices the boys. It gives you something extra to fight for – it’s massive.”

As Palace look to keep their Premier League International Cup campaign alive, the message from the dressing room is clear: the challenge is embraced, the occasion is relished, and the support could make all the difference.

### How to follow

The match will be streamed live on Palace TV+ on Wednesday evening (18th February, 19:00 GMT) – [**click HERE to learn more about Palace TV+ and subscribe today!**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/palace-tv-plus/)

Can’t watch live? Follow live commentary on our **Academy X (Twitter) page**, with a full match report and reaction available shortly after full-time in our **Academy news section**.

**Highlights** and reaction will also be available on [**Palace TV+**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/).

### Match Details

**Crystal Palace Under-21s v Borussia Monchengladbach Under-21s**

- Wednesday, 18th February.
- 19:00 GMT
- VBS Community Stadium
- Premier League International Cup
- Watch LIVE on [Palace TV+](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/)
- [Buy tickets here](https://www.eticketing.co.uk/cpfc/EDP/Event/Index/869?position=1)

### Ticket Prices:

- Adults: £5
- Over 65s: £1
- Under 18s: £1
- Academy Founder Members: Free (1 per AFM)
- Personal Assistant: Free (must be booked with ambulant supporter)

Tickets can also be purchased by [**clicking here**](https://www.eticketing.co.uk/cpfc/EDP/Event/Index/866) and will be issued at the point of sale as **PDF print-at-home tickets.**

Crystal Palace Under-21s face a defining Premier League International Cup test on Wednesday evening (18th February, 19:00 GMT), as Borussia Mönchengladbach visit Sutton with qualification on the line. 

U21 trio preview must-win Borussia Monchengladbach clash

Crystal Palace U21 v Borussia Mönchengladbach U21 (2026-01-21)

*The match will be streamed live on Palace TV+ TONIGHT (18th February, 19:00 GMT) – [**click HERE to learn more about Palace TV+ and subscribe today!**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/palace-tv-plus/)*

*Can’t watch live? Follow live commentary on our **Academy X (Twitter) page**, with a full match report and reaction available shortly after full-time in our **Academy news section**.*

***Highlights*** *and reaction* *will also be available on [**Palace TV+**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/).*

BUY TICKETS HERE

The fixture, originally scheduled for Wednesday, 21st January, was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. It has now been rearranged to tonight (Wednesday, 18th February, 19:00 GMT), setting up a decisive final Group B encounter.

With every other side having completed their four matches, the qualification picture will be settled in south London.

Valencia sit on nine points from four games, while Mönchengladbach are level on nine points with one match remaining – this one.

For Palace, the equation is simple: only victory will give Darren Powell’s side a chance of progressing to the knockout stages. 

Goal difference is likely to prove decisive, meaning a win by two goals or more would significantly strengthen the young Eagles’ hopes. Anything less than three points would bring their International Cup campaign to an end.

Palace head into the clash in strong form. After opening their European campaign with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Valencia, they responded with an impressive 3-1 victory over Juventus, racing into a commanding first-half lead through Adler Nascimento, Seb Williams and Benji Casey.

A late Juventus goal set up a tense finale, but a heroic goal-line block from George King ensured a deserved win.

That momentum continued with a thrilling 3-2 triumph over FC Nordsjælland. Dylan Reid struck first after reacting quickest to his blocked free-kick, Casey coolly lifted the ball over the ‘keeper to double the advantage, and Reid added a third from the penalty spot.

Despite late pressure – including a stoppage-time effort from Hjalte Rasmussen – Palace held firm to keep their qualification hopes alive.

The Under-21s are further boosted by a superb 2-1 Premier League 2 victory over Fulham last time out, ending the Cottagers’ 13-game unbeaten run.

Mönchengladbach arrive top of Group B on goal difference, having edged past West Brom and Leicester City by 3-2 scorelines before defeating Fulham 2-0, highlighting the scale of the challenge awaiting the young Eagles.

Tonight brings the curtain down on Palace’s group-stage campaign – but with the right result, their European journey will continue. Supporters can secure their tickets now and back the next generation in a must-win European clash at the VBS.

### How to follow

The match will be streamed live on Palace TV+ TONIGHT (18th February, 19:00 GMT) – [**click HERE to learn more about Palace TV+ and subscribe today!**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/palace-tv-plus/)

Can’t watch live? Follow live commentary on our **Academy X (Twitter) page**, with a full match report and reaction available shortly after full-time in our **Academy news section**.

**Highlights** and reaction will also be available on [**Palace TV+**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/).

### Match Details

**Crystal Palace Under-21s v Borussia Monchengladbach Under-21s**

- Tonight (Wednesday, 18th February)
- 19:00 GMT
- VBS Community Stadium
- Premier League International Cup
- Watch LIVE on [Palace TV+](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/)
- [Buy tickets here](https://www.eticketing.co.uk/cpfc/EDP/Event/Index/869?position=1)

### Ticket Prices:

- Adults: £5
- Over 65s: £1
- Under 18s: £1
- Academy Founder Members: Free (1 per AFM)
- Personal Assistant: Free (must be booked with ambulant supporter)

Tickets can also be purchased by [**clicking here**](https://www.eticketing.co.uk/cpfc/EDP/Event/Index/866) and will be issued at the point of sale as **PDF print-at-home tickets.**

Tickets are now on sale for Crystal Palace Under-21s’ rearranged clash with Borussia Mönchengladbach in the Premier League International Cup TONIGHT (18th February, 19:00 GMT) – with qualification on the line under the lights at Sutton’s VBS Community Stadium.

Tickets on sale for Borussia Monchengladbach in the Premier League International Cup TONIGHT!

*The match will be streamed live on Palace TV+ on Wednesday evening (18th February, 19:00 GMT) – [**click HERE to learn more about Palace TV+ and subscribe today!**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/palace-tv-plus/)*

*Can’t watch live? Follow live commentary on our **Academy X (Twitter) page**, with a full match report and reaction available shortly after full-time in our **Academy news section**.*

***Highlights*** *and reaction* *will also be available on [**Palace TV+**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/).*

### Eagle-Eyed Review

Darren Powell’s Under-21s come into Wednesday’s crucial Premier League International Cup clash on the back of a strong 2-1 Premier League 2 win over Fulham, ending the Cottagers’ 13-game unbeaten run.

The first half in south London was cagey, with possession shared and chances limited on a tricky surface, but Palace gradually imposed themselves. Joe Gibbard’s pressing led to the opening goal, with Seb Williams rifling a superb half-volley after a slick passing move involving Zach Marsh and Benji Casey.

Just before the interval, Rio Cardines doubled the advantage. Charlie Walker-Smith’s long throw found Marsh, who cleverly laid the ball into Cardines’ path. The wing-back’s precise strike across goal put Palace firmly in control at half-time.

Fulham halved the deficit after the hour mark through Brad De Jesus from an inswinging corner, and the visitors pressed for an equaliser. Palace, however, defended resolutely, surviving late scares and an offside call to secure the three points.

The win lifts Palace to 11th in Premier League 2 on 21 points, four clear of the play-off positions, providing a boost of confidence as the season reaches a crucial stage.

In the Premier League International Cup, Palace have shown they can match Europe’s best.

After a narrow 1-0 defeat to Valencia, the young Eagles responded with a 3-1 victory over Juventus, racing into a commanding first-half lead through Adler Nascimento, Seb Williams, and Benji Casey. A late Juventus strike set up a tense finale, but George King’s heroic goal-line block preserved a deserved win.

Momentum continued with a thrilling 3-2 triumph over FC Nordsjælland. Dylan Reid opened the scoring after reacting quickest to a blocked free-kick, Casey lifted the ball over the goalkeeper to double the advantage, and Reid added a third from the penalty spot. Despite late pressure – including a stoppage-time effort from Hjalte Rasmussen – Palace held firm, keeping their knockout hopes alive ahead of Wednesday’s decisive clash.

### Borussia Mönchengladbach – The Opposition

Like Juventus, Borussia Mönchengladbach do not operate a traditional U21s side. Instead, their reserve team – Borussia Mönchengladbach II – competes in senior football against semi-professional and fully professional opposition.

Gladbach II currently compete in the Regionalliga West, the fourth tier of German football. The league represents the first step of senior football below the national divisions, with teams split regionally.

Mönchengladbach have a long-standing reputation for developing young talent. Nicknamed *Die Fohlen* (The Foals) for their youthful and energetic style, the club built sustained success in the 1970s by developing homegrown players, winning the Bundesliga five times during that decade.

That philosophy continues today, with their reserve side acting as a bridge between academy football and the Bundesliga. World-class players such as Lothar Matthäus and Marc-André ter Stegen emerged from the club’s system.

This season, Gladbach II sit sixth in the Regionalliga West, level on 32 points with Borussia Dortmund II, and arrive in good form.

In the Premier League International Cup, they have impressed – edging past both West Bromwich Albion and Leicester City by 3-2 scorelines before recording a comfortable 2-0 victory over Fulham.

### Premier League International Cup Explained…

First introduced in the 2014/15 season, the Premier League International Cup was designed to give Premier League academies valuable experience against elite international opposition.

The competition features the top 16 finishers from Premier League 2 alongside 16 invited international academy sides. Teams are split into four groups of eight, each containing four PL2 clubs and four international teams.

Each side plays four group-stage fixtures, with PL2 clubs hosting international opponents. The top two teams from each group progress to the quarter-finals.

### The Permutations

Every side in Group B has completed their four matches except Palace and Borussia Mönchengladbach, meaning Wednesday night will decide the final qualification picture under the lights in Sutton.

Gladbach currently sit on nine points with a goal difference of +4 (8:4), level on points with Valencia, who also have nine points but a slightly inferior goal difference of +3 (8:5). Palace enter the final round on seven points with a goal difference of +2 (6:4).

Darren Powell’s side know that only a victory over Mönchengladbach will give them a chance of reaching the knockout stages. A draw or defeat would see Palace eliminated.

With all three sides potentially able to finish level on nine points, goal difference is likely to be decisive. A win by two goals or more would place Palace in a strong position to secure qualification, while a narrower victory would leave the young Eagles reliant on goal difference and other tie-breakers.

### Likely Line-Up

**Borussia Mönchengladbach expected XI:** Trippel, Uwakhonye, Meiser, Lieder, Berko, Fleck, Stange, Vidic, Adozi, Güner, Michaelis.

### Team News

Mönchengladbach’s starting XI has been relatively settled in recent weeks, though Danfa and Dasbach could feature ahead of Adozi and Güner depending on selection.

### Pre-Match Analysis

Mönchengladbach arrive in south London top of Group B with a 100% record, having won all three of their International Cup fixtures to date. They have scored eight goals – joint-most in the group – and boast one of the strongest attacking returns in the competition.

Domestically, Gladbach II have also found consistency, winning three of their last five Regionalliga West matches, including back-to-back victories over Bocholt and Bochum.

### Key Players – Jan Urbich & Fritz Fleck

Jan Urbich has enjoyed a prolific season since joining the Gladbach U23s for the 2025/26 campaign. He made a remarkable start in the Regionalliga West, scoring 11 goals in his first eight matches, earning a call-up to the Bundesliga squad under then-caretaker head coach Eugen Polanski, who handed him his senior debut.

Fritz Fleck joined Gladbach from Borussia Dortmund’s U19s ahead of the 2024/25 season and impressed immediately. He scored nine goals and registered four assists in the DFB Youth League and has continued that form at senior level. Despite being eligible for the U19s, Fleck has featured regularly for Gladbach II and has already scored three goals in the Premier League International Cup this season.

### The Gaffer – Sascha Eickel

Sascha Eickel began his managerial career at SC Neheim before moving into academy football with Paderborn and later Borussia Dortmund, where he coached both the U17 and U19 sides.

After nine years at Eintracht Braunschweig – progressing from youth coach to assistant manager – Eickel joined Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2019 as U19 manager. The 50-year-old currently oversees both the U19s and U23s and will be on the sidelines for the remainder of the campaign. This comes after Eugen Polanski earned promotion as first-team manager.

### How to follow

The match will be streamed live on Palace TV+ on Wednesday evening (18th February, 19:00 GMT) – [**click HERE to learn more about Palace TV+ and subscribe today!**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/palace-tv-plus/)

Can’t watch live? Follow live commentary on our **Academy X (Twitter) page**, with a full match report and reaction available shortly after full-time in our **Academy news section**.

**Highlights** and reaction will also be available on [**Palace TV+**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/).

### Match Details

**Crystal Palace Under-21s v Borussia Monchengladbach Under-21s**

- Wednesday, 18th February.
- 19:00 GMT
- VBS Community Stadium
- Premier League International Cup
- Watch LIVE on [Palace TV+](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/)
- [Buy tickets here](https://www.eticketing.co.uk/cpfc/EDP/Event/Index/869?position=1)

### Ticket Prices:

- Adults: £5
- Over 65s: £1
- Under 18s: £1
- Academy Founder Members: Free (1 per AFM)
- Personal Assistant: Free (must be booked with ambulant supporter)

Tickets can also be purchased by [**clicking here**](https://www.eticketing.co.uk/cpfc/EDP/Event/Index/866) and will be issued at the point of sale as **PDF print-at-home tickets.**

Crystal Palace Under-21s face German side Borussia Mönchengladbach in our final, must-win Premier League International Cup group-stage fixture on Wednesday (18th February, 19:00 GMT) at Sutton’s VBS Community Stadium – get the full lowdown below.

U21s preview: Young Eagles' must-win match vs Borussia Mönchengladbach

Following the postponement of the original match on Wednesday, 21st January due to a waterlogged pitch at the VBS Community Stadium, our final and must-win group-stage fixture against Borussia Mönchengladbach has now been rearranged.

The match will now take place on **Wednesday, 18th February**, with kick-off scheduled for **19:00 GMT** at the **VBS**.

Supporters can watch the game live on **Palace TV+** [– click HERE to find out more and subscribe](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/).

Alternatively, be there in person and purchase tickets by [clicking HERE](https://www.eticketing.co.uk/cpfc/EDP/Event/Index/869?position=3).

We will continue to keep supporters updated should there be any further changes to the Academy fixture schedule.

We can confirm an update to our Under-21s’ Academy fixture schedule in the Premier League International Cup.

Fixture Update: Under-21s vs Borussia Mönchengladbach

The match, which was scheduled to kick-off at 19:00 GMT this evening (21st January) and be shown live on Palace TV+, will no longer take place.

Details of rearranged date will be announced as soon as possible. Supporters who have purchased tickets are advised to email <mailto:boxoffice@cpfc.co.uk> or call the Box Office on 0333 360 1861.

Further updates will be provided on [cpfc.co.uk](http://cpfc.co.uk) and via the official [Academy X account](https://x.com/CPFCAcademy).

We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

Crystal Palace Under-21s’ Premier League International Cup fixture against Borussia Mönchengladbach has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch at the VBS Community Stadium.

Palace U21s v Borussia Monchengladbach U21s postponed

Our Young Eagles Preview Mönchengladbach

*The match will be streamed live on Palace TV+ on Wednesday evening (19th January, 19:00 GMT) – [**click HERE to learn more about Palace TV+ and subscribe today!**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/palace-tv-plus/)*

*Can’t watch live? Follow live commentary on our **Academy X (Twitter) page**, with a full match report and reaction available shortly after full-time in our **Academy news section**.*

***Highlights*** *will also be available on [**Palace TV+**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/).*

Palace’s European ambitions extend beyond the first team this season, with the Under-21s testing themselves against elite opposition from across the continent in the Premier League International Cup. With Group B reaching its conclusion, Wednesday’s fixture will determine the young Eagles’ fate in the competition.

Every side in the group has completed their four matches except Palace and Mönchengladbach, meaning the final qualification picture will be decided under the lights in Sutton.

Valencia currently sit on nine points from four games, while Gladbach also have nine points but with one match still to play.

Darren Powell’s side know that only a victory will give them a chance of progressing to the knockout stages, with goal difference likely to play a decisive role. Anything less than a win would bring Palace’s International Cup journey to an end, and a victory by two goals or more would significantly boost their qualification hopes.

Palace opened their campaign with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Valencia, before responding superbly with a statement 3-1 victory over Juventus.

Powell’s side were electric in that contest, racing into a commanding first-half lead. Adler Nascimento broke the deadlock after 11 minutes with a cushioned volley from a tight angle, Seb Williams doubled the advantage with a crisp half-volley into the near corner, and Benji Casey capped off a dominant opening period with his first goal for the club.

Although Juventus pulled one back late on, Palace held their nerve – helped by a brilliant goal-line block from George King – to secure a deserved win.

The young Eagles then followed that up with a thrilling 3-2 victory over FC Nordsjælland to keep qualification hopes alive.

Dylan Reid opened the scoring with a stunning follow-up after his free-kick was blocked, before Casey doubled the lead by lifting the ball over the goalkeeper in a one-on-one situation. Reid added a third from the penalty spot midway through the second half.

Despite late goals from the Danish side, including a stoppage-time strike from Hjalte Rasmussen, Palace showed resilience to see out the win.

As mentioned above, Mönchengladbach arrive in south London top of Group B, level on nine points with Valencia but still with their final fixture to play. The German side have edged past both West Brom and Leicester City by 3-2 scorelines, before recording a comfortable 2-0 victory over Fulham.

Wednesday’s meeting brings the curtain down on Palace’s group-stage campaign – but, with the right result, not their journey in the competition.

### Match Details 

**Crystal Palace Under-21s v Borussia Monchengladbach Under-21s**

- Wednesday, 21st January
- 19:00 GMT
- VBS Community Stadium 
- Premier League International Cup
- Watch LIVE on [Palace TV+](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/palace-tv/)
- [Buy tickets here](https://www.eticketing.co.uk/cpfc/EDP/Event/Index/869?position=1)

### Ticket Prices:

- Adults: £5
- Over 65s: £1
- Under 18s: £1
- Academy Founder Members: Free (1 per AFM)
- Personal Assistant: Free (must be booked with ambulant supporter)

Tickets can also be purchased by [**clicking here**](https://www.eticketing.co.uk/cpfc/EDP/Event/Index/866) and will be issued at the point of sale as **PDF print-at-home tickets.**

Crystal Palace Under-21s face German side Borussia Mönchengladbach in a must-win Premier League International Cup clash on Wednesday (21st January, 19:00 GMT) at Sutton’s VBS Community Stadium.

Premier League International CupVBS Community Stadium

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