Who Will Win the FA Cup?
When Manchester United play against Liverpool, fans can always expect to be treated to a
blockbuster encounter. The recent FA Cup quarterfinal between the two arch-rivals will live
on forever in the same way that the Red Devils’ stunning victory against Arsenal in their
treble-winning campaign of 1999 still does. It looked as though the Merseysiders would
secure the win when two goals on the stroke of half time from Alexis Mac Allister and
Mohamed Salah gave the visitors a 2-1 lead.
However, when all hope seemed lost, the hosts found a way past their greatest adversaries. Antony equalised with just minutes remaining before Marcus Rashford missed a guilt-edged chance with the last kick in regular time. Once the extra period got underway, Harvey Elliot’s deflected slide once again gave Liverpool the lead. United stormed their way back into the contest again when Rashford found the back of the net, allowing Ivorian youngster Amad Diallo to net his first goal of the season for Manchester United in the 121st minute to secure his team the victory.
The result has propelled Erik Ten Hag’s men into the final four of this year’s FA Cup. For Jurgen Klopp, meanwhile, his dream of bowing out from his stint as manager at Anfield while collecting four trophies in one season is now over.
Of the four remaining FA Cup semi-finalists, which team is expected to walk away with the trophy? Let’s take a look.
Manchester City
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City is, without a doubt, a formidable force in English football. The Blues romped to the treble last season and they look well on course to repeat the feat this term. City are through to the Champions League quarter-finals and are just one point away from Premier League leaders Arsenal in the title race. Meanwhile, a comfortable 2-0 victory against Newcastle has put them into the FA Cup semifinals for the sixth straight season.
The popular bookmaker Bet365 have made the Citizens 8/13 favourites to lift the trophy. Punters are also able to use a Bet365 bonus code, allowing them to up to $150 in free bets, should they choose to sign up and make a bet.
Known for their tactical fluidity, depth of talent, and possession-based style of play, City have consistently been at the top of their game. With players like Kevin De Bruyne orchestrating the midfield and Erling Haaland posing a constant threat upfront, it is unsurprising that City are on the hunt for their second straight treble. They have a tough semi-final against Chelsea awaiting them at Wembley, but it’s a contest that they are heavily favoured to win.
Manchester United
Fresh off their electrifying win against Liverpool, Manchester United have been installed as the second favourites thanks to an agreeable draw against Championship outfit Coventry City. Under the guidance of ten Hag, the Red Devils have made significant strides this season, blending youth with experience to create a dynamic and competitive squad.
Players like Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford have been instrumental in their campaign, providing leadership and crucial goals. The dramatic victory over Liverpool could serve as a catalyst for United, instilling belief and momentum. They have laid the ghosts of their defeat to their cross-city rivals in the showpiece last season to rest, and can now focus on more glory this season.
Chelsea
Chelsea’s journey to the FA Cup semifinals has been a rollercoaster of emotions. Despite facing challenges in the Premier League, the Blues have found solace in their cup performances. Managed by Mauricio Pochettino, their squad boasts a mix of seasoned veterans and promising youngsters, making them unpredictable and dangerous opponents.
Centre half Thiago Silva remains imperative to any success they may have, while talented young English midfielder Cole Palmer has proven to be world-class since his arrival last summer. Chelsea have the toughest test of anyone after being drawn against the reigning champions in the semis, but should they pass that test then there is no reason to think that they can’t end the year with the trophy.
Coventry City
Coventry City stand as the dark horse in this year’s FA Cup. Competing in the second tier, their run to the semifinals has been nothing short of a fairy tale. Managed by Mark Robins – the man who saved Sir Alex Ferguson’s job at Manchester United back in 1990 – the Sky Blues have defied expectations, showcasing determination, teamwork, and a never-say-die attitude.
Their journey has been marked by upsets and dramatic victories, none more so than their quarterfinal triumph against local rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers, where they netted two goals deep into injury time to secure the win. Now, Robins will face off against reunited with the Red Devils in the semi-finals, and he will be aiming for one last almighty upset to see his team into the final.