The English FA Cup returns for the fifth round this weekend after an action-packed fourth round which saw Premier League giants Liverpool and Chelsea bow out of the competition.
Manchester City vs Plymouth Argyle: Championship side eye another big upset
Plymouth Argyle travel to the Etihad on Saturday to face Premier League champions Manchester City after eliminating Premier League leaders Liverpool in the previous round, in a match that ranks as one of the biggest upset of all-time in the competition.
The Championship side sit in the relegation zone in the second division but have lost just once in their past seven games in all competitions, ahead of their trip to Etihad and will fancy their chances against the Cityzens.
Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola’s side have endured a poor run of form with two wins and four defeats in their last six games in all competitions and with only the FA Cup as their only chance of a silverware, need to make a statement with a comprehensive victory on Saturday.
Manchester United vs Fulham: Amorim eyes another cup victory
The Red Devils have endured an underwhelming season as they are just above the Premier League relegation zone in 15th place. Injuries to key players have not helped their course as they have struggled to adapt to the Portuguese coach set-up. They have won just once in their past four games, but were 1-0 victors over the Cottagers when both sides faced in a league match in January.
Fulham are fresh off a comfortable 2-1 win over Wolves and had the luxury of resting five of their starters for the game against Manchester United on Sunday.
The Red Devils need to deliver a strong response to their recent slump to salvage their season, while the Cottagers energized by Marco Silva’s attacking tactics, aim to capitalize on United’s struggles and exacerbate their woes.
Newcastle United vs Brighton and Hove Albion: What next for Brighton after eliminating Chelsea?
Since dumping the Blues out of the FA Cup, the Seagulls have won three in three and will look to continue their impressive form with a win against the Magpies at St James Park.
Newcastle United however have been the better side in cup competitions in recent years with two Carabao Cup final appearances in three years and will hope to claim a first win over Brighton since 2023.
Shina Oludare is a distinguished sports journalist and managing editor, renowned for his comprehensive coverage of African football. His dedication to elevating African sports on the global stage has earned him widespread respect, along with numerous accolades for his contributions. A graduate of the LaLiga Business School in Madrid, Oludare’s passion for sports and his influential work in African football journalism have established him as a leading figure in the industry.
