Prediction: Both Teams to Score and Manchester United to Win
Odds: 7/2
Bookmaker: Betfair
Chelsea and Manchester United will be aiming to reach the FA Cup final as they clash in the second semi-final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.
The Blues managed to edge past Leicester City in the last-eight, whilst Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s troops squeezed beyond Norwich City 2-1 after extra-time.
Manchester United
The Red Devils come into the clash in the capital as one of the form sides in the country. They are undefeated in their last 19 matches in all competitions, stretching back to a 2-0 reverse to Burnley back in January. They also managed to notch another victory last time out as they defeated Crystal Palace 2-0 at Selhurst Park. Their recent form in the FA Cup is also very positive having reached two out of the last four finals, falling to defeat in the most recent ironically against Chelsea. One of the main positives of the team since the restart has been their clinical edge in front of goal. In eight games, the Red Devils have only failed to score at least two goals in a game once and even that came in the first game back with the 1-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur. That will certainly give them confidence as they attempt to reach their 21st FA Cup final appearance and potentially taste glory for what would be the 13th occasion.
Team News
The Red Devils could potentially have problems at left-back for the match. Luke Shaw suffered an ankle injury in the recent draw with Southampton, with Brandon Williams sustaining a nasty gash on his head in the same game. Both could be doubtful for the semi-final. Fellow defenders Axel Tuanzebe and Phil Jones are both still restricted to the sidelines.
Chelsea
Away from their race to be in the Premier League top four, Chelsea will be desperate to reach the FA Cup semi-final in Lampard’s first season in charge. They have reached two out of the last three finals, winning the 2017/18 edition against United. Much like the Red Devils, they are in relatively positive form. Allowing for their shocking defeats to Watford and Sheffield United, they have won the other six, edging past Norwich City 1-0 at Stamford Bridge last time out. Whilst their defence has not been the best this season, the statistics in the FA Cup suggest that they may well be more stubborn this time around. The Londoners have managed to keep seven clean sheets in their last nine games in the competition, something that United will be very keen to overcome. They have also only failed to win one semi-final in their last seven appearances at that stage, winning the FA Cup in five of those seasons.
Team News
One considerable loss for the Blues ahead of the match is N’Golo Kante. The French midfielder has missed the last three Premier League matches. Billy Gilmour is also still out with a serious knee injury. One man who the Blues will hope to rely on again is Olivier Giroud. The forward has been instrumental since the restart, netting four Premier League goals, including the winner against Norwich last time out.
Key Facts To Consider
- Manchester United have the far better all-time record between the two teams (W81, D51, L54)
- The Blues have not managed to beat Manchester United in six matches
- Four out of the last six clashes in the FA Cup between the two has ended 1-0 to Chelsea
- Olivier Giroud has not managed to score against Manchester United since 2016
- The Red Devils have progressed from 70% of their FA Cup semi-finals, whilst Chelsea have only won 54%
Conclusion
Whilst it is crucial that these two sides gain a top four position this season, glory in the FA Cup could transform their season. Considering United’s current form, they are somewhat justified favourites. Having said that, Chelsea will be stubborn opponents. It’s going to be a close match but the Red Devils should progress.
Prediction: Both Teams to Score and Manchester United to Win
Odds: 7/2
Bookmaker: Betfair
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