Following the international break, the Premier League pauses, and the FA Cup quarterfinals take the spotlight in England. Eight teams are vying for a place in the coveted semi-finals at Wembley Stadium in London.
This FA Cup quarterfinal stage is especially captivating because Manchester City, the reigning champions from 2022-23, are the sole representative from the traditional “Big Six” Premier League clubs. This makes Pep Guardiola`s team strong favorites to win the tournament, particularly as it might be their best chance for silverware this season. However, considering Manchester City`s inconsistent form, other teams might fancy their chances. Six more Premier League teams – Fulham, Crystal Palace, Brighton & Hove Albion, Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa, and Bournemouth – are also competing for the FA Cup, each aiming to emulate Newcastle United`s success as a less expected cup winner. Preston North End, a Championship side currently in 14th place, completes the quarterfinal lineup and continues their impressive underdog journey as the only non-Premier League team remaining.
Here`s a preview of what to expect before watching this weekend`s FA Cup matches.
FA Cup Quarterfinal Schedule
All times U.S./Eastern
Saturday, March 29
- Crystal Palace 3, Fulham 0
- Brighton & Hove Albion vs. Nottingham Forest, 1:15 p.m. (ESPN+)
Sunday, March 30
- Preston North End vs. Aston Villa, 8:30 a.m. (ESPN+)
- Bournemouth vs. Manchester City, 11:30 a.m. (ESPN+)
Matchup of the Week
It`s always exciting when an underdog makes a significant run in a cup competition. Preston North End`s game against Aston Villa on Sunday will be particularly interesting. Villa are favored and have had a strong season, including reaching the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. However, they aren`t invincible. Currently ninth in the Premier League with only two wins in their last eight matches, vulnerabilities exist, potentially opening the door for an upset, albeit unlikely. A Villa victory would solidify them as strong contenders for the FA Cup title, given their consistent improvement under manager Unai Emery.
Upset Watch
Manchester City are the obvious favorites to win the FA Cup, but their season has been less than straightforward. Their quarterfinal match against Bournemouth is notable, as Bournemouth are having a strong season themselves. Bournemouth defeated City 2-1 in November, during City`s fall winless streak, and will be eager to repeat that performance. A strong showing by Bournemouth could be significant for manager Andoni Iraola, who is reportedly being considered for the Tottenham Hotspur job, as Ange Postecoglou faces pressure after a disappointing domestic season that sees them in 14th place in the Premier League.
