The M23 Derby returns with high stakes as Crystal Palace and Brighton & Hove Albion renew their fierce rivalry on Saturday, February 8, 2026. With both clubs firmly entrenched in the Premier League’s mid-table battle and separated by the narrowest of margins, this clash at Selhurst Park promises more than just local bragging rights. For fans worldwide, navigating the broadcast landscape is key. This definitive guide provides everything you need to know to watch the match, from global TV channels and streaming services to in-depth tactical analysis and team news.
The M23 Derby: More Than Just a Local Clash
While not geographically the closest derby, the rivalry between Crystal Palace and Brighton is among the most intense in English football. Rooted in a contentious rivalry from the late 1970s, each meeting carries significant weight. The “M23 Derby” tag, referencing the motorway connecting South London and the South Coast, belies a deep-seated competitive history. Matches are typically characterized by high energy, goals, and unpredictable outcomes. For both Oliver Glasner and Fabian Hurzeler, this game is a crucial test of their teams’ ambitions for the season’s final stretch, making it a must-watch fixture.
Match Date, Kick-Off Time & Venue
The Premier League clash between Crystal Palace and Brighton & Hove Albion is scheduled for Saturday, February 8, 2026. The match will be held at Crystal Palace’s home ground, Selhurst Park, in South London. The kick-off time is set for 15:00 GMT (UK). This is a standard Saturday afternoon slot for the Premier League, but international viewers should carefully check the corresponding local start time.
How to Watch Crystal Palace vs Brighton Worldwide
Broadcast rights for the Premier League are divided by region. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of how to watch the M23 Derby live from anywhere in the world.
United Kingdom
In the UK, live television coverage of the Premier League is split between Sky Sports and TNT Sports. For this particular fixture, Sky Sports holds the broadcasting rights. The match will be shown live on their dedicated channels, likely Sky Sports Premier League or Sky Sports Main Event. Coverage typically begins 30-60 minutes before kick-off. Subscribers can also stream the action live via the Sky Go app on smartphones, tablets, and computers.
United States & Canada
In the United States, the exclusive English-language home of the Premier League is Peacock. The Crystal Palace vs Brighton match will be available for live streaming on this NBCUniversal platform. Some select matches may also be televised on the USA Network, but for this derby, Peacock is your primary destination. In Canada, all Premier League matches are streamed live and on-demand through fuboTV, which holds the exclusive rights.
India & Subcontinent
Fans in India can watch the game live on the Star Sports Network, which holds the regional broadcast rights. Simultaneously, the match will be available for live streaming via the Disney+ Hotstar app and website, offering flexibility for mobile and desktop viewing.
Australia
Viewers in Australia can tune in to Optus Sport, which has exclusive rights to stream every Premier League match live. The service is available via its dedicated app or website.
Using a VPN for International Viewers
If you are traveling abroad or reside in a country without a direct broadcast partner, you can use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A reliable VPN allows you to connect to a server in a country where the match is being broadcast (like the UK or US) and access your usual streaming service (e.g., Sky Go, Peacock). It’s essential to choose a reputable VPN provider with strong streaming capabilities and to ensure your use complies with the terms of service of your streaming platform.
Team News, Injuries, and Predicted Lineups
Both sides have key fitness concerns heading into this derby, which could significantly impact their tactical setups.
Crystal Palace Team News
Oliver Glasner faces several selection headaches. Key midfielder Cheick Doucoure remains a long-term absentee. Forward Eddie Nketiah is recovering from a hamstring strain and is likely unavailable. The fitness of winger Ismaila Sarr, who has been managing a hamstring issue, will be closely monitored after his midweek European exploits. Defender Chadi Riad is working his way back from a serious knee injury but may not be risked from the start. Glasner may look to the experience of players like Adam Wharton and Jefferson Lerma to control the midfield battle.
Brighton & Hove Albion Team News
Fabian Hurzeler has a mixed bag of news. The potential return of Japanese winger Kaoru Mitoma from a foot injury would be a major boost to Brighton’s attacking options. Defender Joel Veltman is expected to be available after recovering from a calf problem. However, the Seagulls are without the experienced James Milner due to a muscular injury, and young talent Brajan Gruda continues his recovery from a knee issue. The form of Danny Welbeck and the creativity of Georginio Rutter will be central to Brighton’s plans.
Predicted Starting Lineups
Crystal Palace (Predicted 3-4-2-1): Henderson; Richards, Lacroix, Guehi; Munoz, Lerma, Wharton, Mitchell; Kamada, Sarr; Mateta.
Brighton (Predicted 4-2-3-1): Verbruggen; Veltman, Van Hecke, Dunk, Kadioglu; Baleba, Wieffer; Minteh, Rutter, Gomez; Welbeck.
Current Form, Head-to-Head, and Match Context
Form is often secondary in derby matches, but it provides crucial context. Crystal Palace have shown resilience under Glasner, putting together a run of three consecutive wins across all competitions prior to this fixture, including impressive victories over Brentford and Liverpool. Their home form at Selhurst Park has been a particular strength.
Brighton’s season has been typically unpredictable—capable of stunning victories but prone to inconsistency. They arrive off the back of a convincing 3-0 win over Leeds United, with Danny Welbeck in fine scoring form. Historically, this fixture is remarkably even. In their last five Premier League meetings, both teams have won two games each, with one draw. Notably, Crystal Palace did the double over Brighton last season, but the Seagulls have often found goals hard to come by at Selhurst Park in recent years.
For the latest league standings, fixtures, and official stats, visiting the official Premier League website is always recommended.
Key Players and Tactical Battle
This derby will be decided by key individual battles and tactical nuance. For Palace, all eyes will be on Jean-Philippe Mateta. The striker’s physical presence and knack for crucial goals make him the focal point of Palace’s attack. In midfield, the composure of Adam Wharton will be vital in dictating tempo against Brighton’s press.
For Brighton, the dynamism of Danny Welbeck is their main threat. His movement and experience can unsettle Palace’s back three. The creative burden will fall on Georginio Rutter, whose ability to find pockets of space between the lines will be crucial to unlocking a disciplined Palace defense.
Tactically, expect Palace to be organized in their 3-4-2-1 shape, looking to hit Brighton on the counter-attack or via set-pieces. Brighton, under Hurzeler, will aim to dominate possession and use their full-backs to create width, trying to pull Palace’s wing-backs out of position. The midfield battle for second balls and control of the center will be decisive.
Match Preview and Prediction
Selhurst Park will be rocking for this derby, providing a formidable atmosphere that historically lifts Crystal Palace. While Brighton’s possession-based style is effective, their away form has been inconsistent. Palace’s robust defensive structure and threat from transitions and set-pieces give them a slight edge, especially if key players like Sarr are fit.
Expect a fiercely contested match with moments of high quality. Both teams have the attacking talent to score, but Palace’s home advantage and recent solidity might prove the difference. A narrow, hard-fought victory for the Eagles seems the most likely outcome.
Prediction: Crystal Palace 2 – 1 Brighton & Hove Albion.
For more in-depth statistical analysis and betting insights on this and other Premier League fixtures, you can explore dedicated sections on ESPN’s soccer hub.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What time does Crystal Palace vs Brighton kick off?
The match kicks off at 15:00 GMT (3:00 PM UK time) on Saturday, February 8, 2026.
Can I watch the M23 Derby for free in the UK?
No, the match is not on free-to-air television. Live coverage in the UK is exclusively available through a Sky Sports subscription, accessed via TV or the Sky Go app.
How can I stream the game in the USA?
In the United States, the game will be streamed live on the Peacock platform. A Peacock Premium subscription is required.
Is Ismaila Sarr playing for Crystal Palace?
Ismaila Sarr is being carefully managed due to a hamstring issue. His availability will be confirmed in the official team news released closer to kick-off, but he is considered a doubt.
What is the recent head-to-head record between these teams?
The recent history is very even. In their last five Premier League meetings, both Crystal Palace and Brighton have won two games each, with one draw.
Where is the Crystal Palace vs Brighton match being played?
The game will be played at Crystal Palace’s home stadium, Selhurst Park, in South London.
Who is the referee for this fixture?
The official referee appointment is typically confirmed by the Premier League one week before the match. Check the official Premier League website for the latest appointment.
What’s at stake in this M23 Derby?
Beyond local pride, both teams are closely packed in the mid-table of the Premier League. A win could propel either side towards the top half and European conversation, while a loss could see them looking over their shoulders.
Can I use a VPN to watch the game if I’m abroad?
Yes, a reliable VPN can allow you to access your home country’s streaming service (like Sky Go or Peacock) while traveling abroad, provided you have an active subscription.
What was the score last time these teams met?
The most recent meeting was earlier in the 2025/26 season. You can find the exact result and match details on the Premier League’s official fixtures and results page.
Final Verdict
The M23 Derby between Crystal Palace and Brighton on February 8, 2026, is poised to be a compelling chapter in one of the Premier League’s most underrated rivalries. With European ambitions and local pride on the line, both teams will leave nothing on the pitch. For viewers globally, the match is accessible through a clear network of broadcast partners: Sky Sports in the UK, Peacock in the USA, and various services elsewhere. While Brighton’s quality ensures they are never to be underestimated, Crystal Palace’s formidable home record and tactical discipline under Oliver Glasner give them a slight advantage. Expect a passionate, tightly-fought contest decided by fine margins, with Selhurst Park playing its part as the defining backdrop. Regardless of the result, this derby promises to deliver the intensity and drama that defines English football.
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