FA Cup Fifth Round: Preview and Prediction

The FA Cup quarter-finals are within reach for the 16 teams competing in the fifth round. With four of the ‘big six’ already eliminated, the 2024/25 tournament is wide open for a surprise winner. Five Championship teams remain, alongside Premier League underdogs dreaming of Wembley glory.

Friday, 28 February

Aston Villa open the round against struggling Championship side Cardiff City. With an upcoming Champions League tie against Club Brugge, Villa may rotate their squad but should progress comfortably. The club last reached the FA Cup quarter-finals in 2014/15, going on to finish as runners-up to Arsenal.

Saturday, 1 March

The standout fixture sees Manchester City face Plymouth Argyle. Plymouth’s cup run has fueled their Championship survival bid after shock wins over Brentford and Liverpool. While another upset seems unlikely, City’s inconsistent form gives them a glimmer of hope.

Crystal Palace and Millwall renew their rivalry at Selhurst Park in a rare meeting between the London clubs. Elsewhere, Preston North End and Burnley clash in the only all-Championship tie, hoping for a more exciting battle than their recent league stalemate. Burnley’s defense, with nine consecutive clean sheets, could be key.

Bournemouth and Wolves meet again after last weekend’s Premier League encounter, where Wolves capitalized on Illia Zabarnyi’s red card. The Cherries will seek revenge against Vitor Pereira’s unpredictable side.

Sunday, 2 March

Defending champions Manchester United face Fulham, who have never won the FA Cup. With Ruben Amorim under pressure, United will hope to use the cup as a lifeline once again.

Newcastle United will host Brighton & Hove Albion in a match expected to deliver attacking entertainment. Both teams have been inconsistent but possess the firepower to make this a thrilling encounter.

See also: https://www.taodoranews.com/article/5-cool-new-sports-to-watch-in-2025

TOTAL ODDS: 7.01