Manchester United is aiming for a quarter final spot.
Image credit: Manchester United
FA Cup holders Manchester United host Fulham in a crucial fifth-round clash, aiming for a quarter-final spot.With both teams eyeing a deep cup run, the stakes are high.
United, desperate to salvage their season, will aim to keep their FA Cup dreams alive, while Fulham look to break their trophy drought with a statement victory.
This article dives into everything you need to know about the match – form analysis, head-to-head record, predicted lineups, key players, and a match prediction.
Match Preview
Manchester United have had an inconsistent campaign, struggling in the league under Rúben Amorim but finding moments of inspiration in cup competitions.
So far in the FA Cup, they have edged past Arsenal on penalties and secured a last-gasp win over Leicester, thanks to a controversial stoppage-time goal from Harry Maguire.
Despite a disappointing Premier League season, United have shown resilience in the FA Cup.
They have reached the quarter-finals in 10 of the last 11 seasons and are unbeaten in their last 14 fifth-round ties. A recent hard-fought 3-2 win over Ipswich Town showcased their ability to grind out results.
While Ruben Amorim’s side struggles with possession-based play, they are more comfortable defending deep and hitting teams on the counter.
This could be crucial against Fulham, a side known for tactical discipline and defensive compactness.
In contrast, Fulham are enjoying a solid season under Marco Silva, currently sitting in the top half of the Premier League and showing promising form.
Fulham, with five wins in their last six away games, will be looking to upset the odds.
Their last FA Cup meeting with United ended in a chaotic 3-1 defeat after a late collapse, but they have improved since then.
Antonee Robinson (10 Premier League assists) will be vital in attack.
Meanwhile, they have defeated Watford and Wigan to reach this stage, with Rodrigo Muniz playing a crucial role in both ties.
Fulham may be underdogs historically, but with Manchester United’s recent struggles and their own solid performances, the Cottagers will believe they can cause an upset at Old Trafford.
Key Insights
- The Opta supercomputer gives Man Utd a 45.3% chance of winning in 90 minutes.
- United have won their last nine FA Cup ties against Fulham, last losing in 1908.
- Bruno Fernandes has been involved in 11 goals in 11 FA Cup games, including two goals in their last FA Cup meeting with Fulham.
Head-to-Head Record
- Matches Played: 93
- Manchester United Wins: 58
- Draws: 20
- Fulham Wins: 15
United have already beaten Fulham twice this season, both by a 1-0 scoreline, and have dominated this fixture historically. However, form and motivation could make this a different contest.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Manchester United
Injury/Suspension List:
- Injured: Altay Bayındır, Lisandro Martínez, Jonny Evans, Luke Shaw, Toby Collyer, Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount, Amad Diallo
- Suspended: Patrick Dorgu
With limited options, Amorim is expected to stick with a strong lineup, but the squad’s depth issues are concerning.
Predicted XI (3-4-3):
Onana; Yoro, de Ligt, Maguire; Dalot, Ugarte, Fernandes, Mazraoui; Garnacho, Zirkzee, Højlund.
Key Player: Bruno Fernandes – The Portuguese playmaker has 10 goals this season and has scored four times against Fulham. If United are to win, Fernandes will likely be at the heart of the action.
Fulham
Injury/Suspension List:
- Injured: Kenny Tete, Reiss Nelson, Harry Wilson
- Doubtful: Emile Smith Rowe
Marco Silva rested key players against Wolves in midweek, meaning a full-strength squad is expected for this FA Cup clash.
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):
Leno; Castagne, Andersen, Bassey, Robinson; Berge, Lukić; Traoré, Smith Rowe, Iwobi; Muniz.
Key Player: Rodrigo Muniz – The Brazilian striker has been in fine form, scoring key goals in Fulham’s FA Cup run. He could be the difference-maker at Old Trafford.
Match Prediction
Manchester United will be expected to control possession, but Fulham’s counter-attacking ability and defensive solidity could pose problems.
Given United’s inconsistency and Fulham’s impressive form, a shock result could be on the cards.
Prediction: Manchester United 1-2 Fulham – Fulham to edge past United and advance to the next round.
Final Thoughts
Manchester United may have the historical advantage, but Fulham’s momentum and squad depth could tip the scales in their favor. W
ith an exciting FA Cup tie ahead, can the Red Devils hold their ground, or will the Cottagers pull off a stunning victory?
Let us know your predictions in the comments!