FA Cup Quarter-Finals: Preview and Predictions

With the final international break of the season behind us, attention shifts to the FA Cup, where eight teams will battle for a coveted spot in the semi-finals.

Despite an underwhelming campaign, Manchester City remains the frontrunner to claim the domestic trophy. Meanwhile, Aston Villa, buoyed by their January signings, will also have high hopes. Nottingham Forest, Fulham, and Bournemouth could spring surprises as well.

Fulham vs Crystal Palace

Fulham has enjoyed a fantastic 2024-25 season under Marco Silva, currently sitting just four points outside the top four.

Their quarter-final opponents, Crystal Palace, enter this clash in excellent form, having secured four consecutive wins before the March international break.

While both teams are performing well, Fulham's home advantage might give them the edge in what promises to be a closely contested match.

Prediction: Fulham 2 - 1 Crystal Palace

Brighton & Hove Albion vs Nottingham Forest

Fabian Hurzeler has made a strong impact in his first season at Brighton, keeping them firmly in the hunt for European football.

However, Nottingham Forest has exceeded expectations, delivering one of their best seasons in recent history.

With the quarter-final set to take place at the Amex Stadium, Brighton has the home advantage, and we back them to go through in this one

Prediction: Brighton & Hove Albion 2 - 1 Nottingham Forest

Preston North End vs Aston Villa

Preston North End is the last remaining Championship side in the FA Cup, having eliminated Charlton Athletic, Wycombe Wanderers, and Burnley en route to the quarter-finals.

They now face a formidable challenge against Aston Villa, who boast one of the Premier League’s strongest squads and are set to clash with Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League quarter-finals.

Despite playing at Deepdale Stadium, Preston will struggle against Unai Emery’s well-drilled Villa side, who are expected to secure a convincing victory.

Prediction: Preston North End 1 - 3 Aston Villa

Bournemouth vs Manchester City

The FA Cup represents Manchester City's last realistic chance of lifting silverware this season.

Pep Guardiola’s men were held to a 2-2 draw against Brighton before the international break, suggesting confidence might not be at its peak.

However, Bournemouth are also enduring a demanding spell, making an away victory the most probable outcome on Sunday.

Prediction: Bournemouth 1 - 2 Manchester City

TOTAL ODDS = 10.00