The FA Cup quarter-finals are upon us, and fans can expect some thrilling matchups as teams battle for a place in the semi-finals. Here’s a breakdown of the key fixtures, our predictions, and top betting offers for punters in South Africa.
Match Date & Time: 29/03/2025 at 13:15
A spot in the semi-finals is at stake as Fulham hosts Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage. The Cottagers will be looking to build on their recent 2-0 victory over Tottenham, but they face a tough test against an in-form Crystal Palace side.
Team News:
- Fulham may be without Tete and Harry Wilson, who are doubtful, while Reiss Nelson remains sidelined.
- Crystal Palace is on a four-game winning streak but will miss Will Hughes due to suspension. Chadi Riad Dnanou, Joel Ward, and Cheick Doucoure are also unavailable.
Prediction: 1-1 (Draw)
This match could be a tightly contested affair, with both teams evenly matched. Interestingly, under 2.5 goals have been scored in their last four meetings.
Brighton vs Nottingham Forest
Match Date & Time: 29/03/2025 at 18:15
Brighton faces Nottingham Forest in a high-stakes clash at the Amex Stadium. The Seagulls have been in fine attacking form and will look to continue their aggressive approach against Forest.
Team News:
- Brighton’s squad depth will be tested with key players like Joel Veltman, Lewis Dunk, and Matt O’Riley all doubtful.
- Nottingham Forest, pushing for Champions League qualification, will be boosted by Chris Wood’s return from international duty. However, goalkeeper Carlos Miguel remains injured.
Prediction: 2-2 (Draw)
Given Forest’s 7-0 thrashing of Brighton in their last league meeting, another high-scoring encounter seems likely.
Preston vs Aston Villa
Match Date & Time: 30/03/2025 at 14:30
Preston will be aiming to cause a major upset when they take on Aston Villa at Deepdale. The Championship side impressed with a 2-1 win over Portsmouth, but facing a Premier League side in red-hot form will be a different challenge.
Team News:
- Preston has no new injury concerns ahead of the game.
- Aston Villa is on a four-game winning streak, and Unai Emery has a near-full squad at his disposal. Ross Barkley is doubtful, while Ollie Watkins has recovered from a minor knee injury.
Prediction: 1-3 (Aston Villa Win)
Villa’s superior quality should see them progress comfortably to the semi-finals.
Bournemouth vs Manchester City
Match Date & Time: 30/03/2025 at 17:30
Defending champions Manchester City visit Bournemouth for a FA Cup quarter-final showdown. Pep Guardiola’s men are in questionable form and will be looking to turn the tables around and go one step closer.
Prediction: 3-1 (Manchester City Win)
City’s attacking depth should see them through, despite Bournemouth ability to threaten on the counter.
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