Crystal Palace is riding a wave of positive energy with key players returning to fitness, just in time for their FA Cup semi-final duel against Aston Villa. Manager Oliver Glasner sees this boost as a springboard for the club’s push toward its first major trophy, with the squad laser-focused on reaching the final at Wembley.
The much-anticipated FA Cup fifth-round draw is set for 10 February 2025, broadcast live on BBC's 'The One Show'. Hosted by Kelly Somers, with football icons Alex Scott and Theo Walcott drawing the teams, fans can catch the action live or via social media. Notable matches like Manchester United vs. Leicester City promise thrilling fixtures for the weekend of 1-2 March.
Birmingham City, flying high on an unbeaten streak, are poised to challenge Newcastle United in the FA Cup's fourth round. Despite Newcastle's recent achievements, historical trends and current injuries could tip the scales in Birmingham's favor. Analyst Jones Knows suggests betting on Birmingham's qualification at attractive odds.
In the FA Cup Fourth Round, Bournemouth clinched a 3-2 victory over Everton with Philip Billing's standout performance, while Newcastle narrowly beat Birmingham 2-1, thanks to Joe Willock's winning goal. Ipswich dealt a crushing 4-0 defeat to Coventry, intensifying pressure on Frank Lampard. Manchester United and Brighton also secured hard-fought wins.
In a strategic shake-up, Pep Guardiola rolled out debut starts for Nico Gonzalez and Vitor Reis in the FA Cup clash against Leyton Orient. As Manchester City made eight changes from their previous match, they overcame an early setback to secure a victory, extending their unbeaten streak against lower-tier teams in the FA Cup to 18.
In their FA Cup clash against Coventry City, Ipswich Town FC showcased a strategic squad rotation that included debutant Alex Palmer as goalkeeper. With 11 changes to their lineup, this approach highlighted the team’s depth and tactical flexibility. Jack Clarke's two goals in the first half were vital in securing a 4-1 victory and progression to the fifth round.