The FA Cup 2024-25 promises to be a thrilling rollercoaster ride, packed with twists and turns to keep fans on the edge of their seats. With many missed moments and tactical surprises from past seasons, this year’s competition is supposed to bring the excitement back with a bang. Expect epic matches, unexpected upsets, and brilliant football strategies that will reignite the passion of every fan. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the magic of the FA Cup! Established in 1871, the FA Cup is not just a tournament but a part of football’s rich history. The 2024-25 season promises thrilling matches, with top teams like Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Arsenal competing. Manchester City and Liverpool are favourites, given their recent strong performances. The FA Cup has featured historic rivalries like Manchester United vs. Arsenal, Liverpool vs. Everton, and Chelsea vs. Tottenham Hotspur. These intense matches draw large crowds and media attention, enhancing the tournament’s prestige with unforgettable moments for all the latest sports updates, scores, and news to sports enthusiasts.
The FA Cup 2nd round matches on November 30 and December 1, 2024, featured some thrilling encounters, setting the stage for even more unpredictable outcomes in the 3rd round. Harrogate Town secured a 1-0 victory over Gainsborough Trinity, while Wycombe defeated Wealdstone 2-0. Accrington Stanley and Swindon Town ended in a 2-2 draw, with Accrington winning 4-1 on penalties. Exeter City triumphed 2-0 against Chesterfield, and Stockport County won 3-1 against Brackley Town. Bristol Rovers edged out Barnsley 4-3 on penalties after a goalless draw. Peterborough United won a high-scoring match 4-3 against Notts County, and Salford City defeated Cheltenham Town 2-0. Wigan Athletic beat Cambridge United 2-1, and Lincoln City emerged victorious in a 4-3 thriller against Crawley Town. Charlton Athletic thrashed Walsall 4-0, and Leyton Orient secured a 2-1 win over Oldham Athletic. Mansfield Town edged out Stevenage 1-0, and Morecambe won 1-0 against Bradford City. On December 1, A.F.C. Wimbledon lost 2-1 to Dagenham & Redbridge, Kettering Town fell 2-1 to Doncaster Rovers, and Birmingham City defeated Blackpool 2-1. Reading won a high-scoring match 5-3 against Harborough Town, and Tamworth won 4-3 on penalties against Burton Albion after a 1-1 draw. Solihull Moors were defeated 2-1 by Bromley. Get ready for an electrifying 3rd round of the FA Cup! This round promises spectacular moves and unforgettable moments that awe fans. Fans are in for a treat as the competition heats up, delivering unbelievable drama and captivating football action. Don’t miss out on the magic of the FA Cup as it continues to surprise and thrill!
Forward Locks
Sheffield United F.C. vs Cardiff City F.C.
Sheffield United F.C. will face Cardiff City F.C. on January 9, 2025, at Bramall Lane, Sheffield, England, in the third FA Cup 2024-25 showdown round. The third round is a significant stage in the FA Cup, which has 64 teams, including those from the Premier League and the Championship, competing in the fourth round.
Arise From
- Sheffield United F.C. – 3rd in Championship
- Cardiff City F.C. – 23rd in Championship
Prediction
Sheffield United F.C., having won its last five games against Cardiff, is in a strong position. Their recent victory against Watford, with goals from Gustavo Hamer and Andre Brooks, showcases their form. However, the likely absence of midfielder Ollie Arblaster due to a knee injury may impact their strategy for the Cardiff game.
Cardiff City F.C., having lost two of its last five matches, including one against Sheff Utd, faces a tough challenge. Their recent draw with Middlesbrough and the unbeaten streak in three matches shows their resilience. However, the potential absence of key players like Aaron Ramsey, Roko Simic, Ryotaro Tsunoda, and Kion Etete due to injuries could significantly affect their performance against Sheffield United F.C.
Wycombe Wanderers F.C. vs. Portsmouth F.C.
On January 10, 2025, Wycombe Wanderers F.C. will face Portsmouth F.C. at Adams Park Stadium in Wycombe, England, in the third FA Cup moment of truth round.
Arise From
- Wycombe Wanderers F.C. – 2nd in Football League One
- Portsmouth F.C. – 21st in Championship
Prediction
Wycombe Wanderers F.C. benefits from strong home support at Adams Park. They recently secured notable wins against Exeter City and Stevenage and have a solid defense, conceding fewer goals. However, they have shown inconsistency in their performances.
Portsmouth F.C. has a strong attack, averaging 1.75 goals per game, and recently won against Swansea City, boosting their confidence. Despite Portsmouth’s scoring streak, their vulnerability of conceding 2.4 goals per away game could be a disadvantage. Thus, Wycombe Wanderers F.C. might have a higher chance of securing a victory.
Birmingham City F.C. vs. Lincoln City F.C.
For the round 3rd in the FA Cup, Birmingham City F.C. and Lincoln City F.C. get together on January 11, 2025, at St. Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park, Birmingham, England.
Arise From
- Birmingham City F.C. – 1st in Football League One
- Lincoln City F.C. – 12th in Football League One
Prediction
Birmingham City F.C. tops League One despite having played fewer games. They are unbeaten in 13 consecutive home league matches and have kept clean sheets in their last four, showcasing a strong defensive setup.
Lincoln City F.C. has struggled recently, failing to win their last four matches and not scoring in those games. Birmingham’s excellent home record and Lincoln’s poor form suggest Birmingham will be more assertive in this FA Cup tie. Given Lincoln’s scoring struggles and Birmingham’s strong form, a comfortable win with a clean sheet for Birmingham is likely.
Liverpool F.C. vs. Accrington Stanley F.C.
Liverpool F.C. conflicts with Accrington Stanley F.C. on January 11, 2025, at Anfield, Liverpool, England, for round 3 in the FA Cup run-in.
Arise From
- Liverpool F.C. – 1st in Premier League
- Accrington Stanley F.C. – 19th in Football League Two
Prediction
Liverpool F.C. features stars like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk. Anfield offers strong home support. The team has performed well in domestic and international competitions but faces expectations and pressure to succeed.
Accrington Stanley F.C., a lower-league team, can surprise and play without pressure, boosted by recent good form. Facing Liverpool is motivating, but they lack the experience and depth of their opponents. Anfield’s atmosphere can be intimidating and challenging. Therefore, Liverpool F.C. will undoubtedly secure a success in their upcoming matches.
Nottingham Forest F.C. vs. Luton Town F.C.
For the round 3rd in the FA Cup, Nottingham Forest F.C. is facing off with Luton Town F.C. on January 11, 2025, at City Ground, West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire, England.
Arise From
- Nottingham Forest F.C. – 3rd in Premier League
- Luton Town F.C. – 20th in Championship
Prediction
Nottingham Forest F.C. is on a high, aiming for a Champions League return. They are the Premier League’s surprise package this season, dreaming big after a remarkable run. Although focusing on a top-four finish, they remain strong contenders for this trophy.
Luton’s season has been disappointing. They are in a relegation battle despite expectations of a strong playoff push after their Premier League relegation. Manager Rob Edwards is under pressure, and fans’ patience is thin due to the team’s lack of progress. Given this, Nottingham Forest will have an edge.
A.F.C. Bournemouth vs. West Bromwich Albion F.C.
A.F.C. Bournemouth is joins by West Bromwich Albion F.C. on January 11, 2025, at Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth, England, for the 3rd round in the FA Cup.
Arise From
- F.C. Bournemouth – 7th in Premier League
- West Bromwich Albion F.C. – 6th in Championship
Prediction
A.F.C. Bournemouth F.C., under Andoni Iraola Sagarna, comes into this match with a solid record. They recently drew 2:2 with Fulham F.C. and have secured two wins and three draws in their last five games. They’ve scored 10 goals and conceded 8. Currently mid-table in the Premier League, they aim to carry their strong form into the FA Cup tie confidently.
West Bromwich Albion F.C. faces an arduous task traveling to Bournemouth. Their last game ended in a 1-1 draw with Swansea City. In their past five games, they’ve had two wins, two draws, and one defeat, scoring seven goals and conceding 6. West Bromwich Albion, having struggled in knockout competitions and losing their last FA Cup match 0:2 to Wolverhampton, are keen to improve their fortunes and increase their chances of victory.
Chelsea F.C. vs. Morecambe F.C.
On January 11, 2025, Chelsea F.C. and Morecambe F.C. will meet at Stamford Bridge, London, England, for round 3 of the FA Cup 2024-25 season.
Arise From
- Chelsea F.C. – 4th in Premier League
- Morecambe F.C. – 23rd in Football League Two
Prediction
Chelsea F.C. features star players like Raheem Sterling and Enzo Fernandez. At Stamford Bridge, they enjoy strong home support. Their good performance in domestic and international competitions comes with high expectations and pressure.
Morecambe F.C., a lower-league team, has the potential to surprise and play without pressure. Recent good form boosts their confidence. Facing Chelsea is motivating, but they lack the experience and depth. Stamford Bridge can be intimidating and challenging. Based on their performances, Chelsea F.C. will have a home-soil advantage to grab a win in their forthcoming series.
Reading F.C. vs Burnley F.C.
Reading F.C. will play Burnley F.C. on January 11, 2025, at Select Car Leasing Stadium in Reading, England, in round 3 of the FA Cup.
Arise From
- Reading F.C. – 6th in Football League One
- Burnley F.C. – 2nd in Championship
Prediction
Reading, coming off a 0-0 draw against Charlton Athletic, has struggled defensively, conceding in 5 of their last six games with eight goals allowed. It’s uncertain if this trend will continue in their next fixture.
Burnley won 1-0 against Blackburn Rovers, with Zian Flemming scoring. They had 51% possession and four shots, two on target. Blackburn had 11 attempts, one on target. Burnley’s defense has conceded just two goals in their last six matches, scoring 7. As we conclude, Burnley F.C. will surely secure a winning streak in their anticipation matches.
Sunderland A.F.C. vs Stoke City F.C.
On January 11, 2025, Sunderland A.F.C. and Stoke City F.C. gathered together at the Stadium of Light, Sunderland, England, in the FA Cup 2024-25 season.
Arise From
- Sunderland A.F.C. – 4th in Championship
- Stoke City F.C. – 19th in Championship
Prediction
Sunderland A.F.C. playing at the Stadium of Light gives Sunderland the support of their home crowd. Sunderland has shown resilience in their recent matches, which could boost their confidence. Sunderland’s recent mix of wins and losses may affect their momentum, and their defense shows vulnerabilities due to conceding multiple goals.
Stoke City F.C.’s solid defensive record could help them withstand Sunderland’s attacks. Stoke has had some success against Sunderland, but playing away could be a disadvantage. Thus, Sunderland A.F.C. might have a better chance of victory.
Leeds United vs. Harrogate Town A.F.C.
For the round 3rd in the FA Cup, Leeds United are confronting Harrogate Town A.F.C. on January 11, 2025, at Elland Road, Leeds, England.
Arise From
- Leeds United – 1st in Championship
- Harrogate Town A.F.C. – 21st in Football League Two
Prediction
Leeds United has a higher league status, superior squad depth, and a home advantage at Elland Road. They can field a strong lineup or rotate players. While they are clear favourites, there is a risk of complacency and difficulty breaking down a defensively organized lower-league side like Harrogate Town.
Harrogate Town A.F.C. is motivated to cause an upset and may use a defensive approach to frustrate Leeds. Despite the quality gap and limited resources, they will be eager to maximize their FA Cup opportunity. The outcome will hinge on Leeds’ approach and Harrogate’s defensive effectiveness and ability to capitalize on any mistakes.
Manchester City F.C. vs Salford City F.C.
Manchester City F.C. is battling Salford City F.C. on January 11, 2025, at Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England, for round 3 in the FA Cup run-in.
Arise From
- Manchester City F.C. – 6th in Premier League
- Salford City F.C. – 3rd in Football League Two
Prediction
Manchester City F.C. aims for another win after their 4-1 victory against West Ham United. Erling Haaland and Phil Foden were key scorers. Despite their attacking prowess, City has struggled defensively, conceding eight goals in their last six matches.
Salford City F.C. comes into the game after a 0-1 win against Milton Keynes Dons, with Hakeeb Adelakun scoring. Notably, their opponents have failed to score in their last six matches, while Salford City has netted 12 goals. Wait, we’ll see if this trend continues in the next game. As a result, Manchester City F.C. will have a home-soil advantage to beat in their upcoming matches.
Hull City vs. Doncaster Rovers F.C.
In round 3 of the FA Cup, Hull City joins up with Doncaster Rovers F.C. on January 12, 2025, at MKM Stadium, Hull, England.
Arise From
- Hull City – 22nd in Championship
- Doncaster Rovers F.C. – 7th in Football League Two
Prediction
Hull City has had a mixed run-in recent match with two wins, one draw, and two defeats, including a 3-3 draw against Leeds United. They’ve scored 10 goals and conceded 12. Under coach Rubén Sellés Salvador, they aim to make a significant impact in the FA Cup after a disappointing previous season. The team is seeking redemption in cup competitions.
Doncaster Rovers F.C., led by Grant Samuel McCann, come into the match with two wins and a recent 1-2 loss to Port Vale. They scored three goals and conceded one in their last two games. Despite the recent loss, their form is promising. They aim to replicate last season’s FA Cup success, with their attacking capabilities crucial against Hull. Doncaster Rovers F.C. will aim for a win to strengthen their position as the away team.
Newcastle United F.C. vs. Bromley F.C.
On January 12, 2025, Newcastle United F.C. tussles with Bromley F.C. at St. James Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, England, for round 3 in the FA Cup.
Arise From
- Newcastle United F.C. – 5th in Premier League
- Bromley F.C. – 12th in Football League Two
Prediction
Playing at St. James’ Park, Newcastle United F.C. enjoys home crowd support. They’ve been performing well, with victories against top teams and a more experienced squad. Key player injuries and the pressure of being higher-ranked may impact their performance.
Bromley F.C. has demonstrated its ability to cause upsets by defeating higher-ranked teams in recent matches. However, playing away from home could be a disadvantage for them. Bromley’s less experienced squad might struggle, while Newcastle United F.C. will surely succeed in their upcoming matches.
Arsenal F.C. vs. Manchester United F.C.
For the third round of the FA Cup, Arsenal F.C. will face Manchester United F.C. on January 12, 2025, at Emirates Stadium in London, England.
Arise From
- Arsenal F.C. – 2nd in Premier League
- Manchester United F.C. – 13th in Premier League
Prediction
Arsenal F.C., under Mikel Arteta, has shown consistency with four wins and one draw in their last five matches. They recently drew 1:1 with Brighton. Arsenal’s solid attack and defense will be crucial against Manchester United. Their previous FA Cup campaign ended in a 0:2 loss to Liverpool, fuelling their desire to progress this time.
Manchester United F.C. is struggling with one win and four defeats in their last five matches, recently losing 0:2 to Newcastle. Coach Rúben Amorim faces challenges in revitalizing the squad. Although they had a strong FA Cup run last season, their current form raises doubts against a well-organized Arsenal side. Given this, Arsenal F.C. will have a better chance to gain on their anticipation matches.
Crystal Palace F.C. vs. Stockport County F.C.
Crystal Palace F.C. will play Stockport County F.C. on January 12, 2025, at Selhurst Park, London, England, in round 3 of the FA Cup 2024-25 season.
Arise From
- Crystal Palace F.C. – 15th in Premier League
- Stockport County F.C. – 7th in Football League One
Prediction
Playing at Selhurst Park gives Crystal Palace home crowd support. As a Premier League team, they have experience against top-tier teams and a well-rounded squad. However, being higher-ranked adds pressure to win.
Stockport County’s recent good form boosts their confidence, though playing away may be a disadvantage. With less experience than Crystal Palace F.C., they aim to secure a triumph in their upcoming matches.
