During the Premier League break, the FA Cup quarterfinals take the spotlight in England. Eight teams are competing for a spot in the semifinals at Wembley Stadium in London.
This quarterfinal round is interesting because Manchester City, the champions from last season, is the only team from the traditional `top six` still in the competition. This makes them favorites to win, especially as the FA Cup might be their best chance for a trophy this season. However, considering their season`s challenges, other teams might see an opportunity. Six other Premier League teams – Fulham, Crystal Palace, Brighton & Hove Albion, Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa, and Bournemouth – are also vying for the FA Cup, hoping to be like Newcastle United, a less expected winner. Preston North End, from the Championship, is the only non-Premier League team left and is considered a Cinderella story.
Here`s what you should know about this weekend`s FA Cup matches.
FA Cup Quarterfinal Schedule
All times U.S./Eastern
Saturday, March 29
- Crystal Palace 3, Fulham 0
- Brighton and Hove Albion vs. Nottingham Forest, (ESPN+)
Sunday, March 30
- Preston North End vs. Aston Villa, (ESPN+)
- Bournemouth vs. Manchester City, (ESPN+)
Matchup of the Week
It`s always exciting when an underdog does well in a cup competition. Preston North End against Aston Villa on Sunday is a game to watch. Aston Villa are expected to win and have had some good moments this season, including reaching the Champions League quarterfinals. But they aren`t perfect. They are currently ninth in the Premier League with only two wins in their last eight games. This might give Preston North End a chance for an upset. If Aston Villa wins as expected, they become a strong contender for the FA Cup, especially with their improvement under manager Unai Emery.
Upset Watch
Manchester City is the favorite to win the FA Cup, but their season hasn`t been easy. Playing against Bournemouth in the quarterfinals is not simple either, as Bournemouth is having a good season. Bournemouth beat City 2-1 in November, during City`s winless streak last fall, and they will want to do it again. If Bournemouth plays well, it could be good for their manager Andoni Iraola, who is reportedly being considered for the Tottenham Hotspur job as Ange Postecoglou is under pressure.
Adrian Whitmore