The FA Cup is reaching its critical stages, with the fifth-round matches set to take place this weekend. As the competition heats up, we’ll see eight teams battling it out, and by the end of the round, we could potentially know all the quarter-finalists. For those teams advancing, the road to Wembley gets much closer, with the semi-finals just one more win away.
The remaining “Big Four” clubs—Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham, and Manchester City—have all been given favorable draws, and each will be looking to secure a smooth passage into the next round. With all four clubs still involved in European competitions, they are keen to avoid any additional fixtures due to replays. Expect these teams to give their best to avoid any setbacks.
Meanwhile, lower league sides Rochdale and Coventry are keeping the dream alive, but they face daunting tasks this weekend. Among the Championship teams, Sheffield Wednesday seems to have the best chance of making it through, although their recent form has been inconsistent. If the FA Cup magic can spark a revival, they could have a shot against Swansea. Based on recent performances, though, their prospects appear slim.
With five out of eight ties being televised this weekend, football fans are in for an exciting feast of FA Cup action.
Predictions for the Fifth-Round Matches
Friday’s Fixtures
- Leicester vs Sheffield United – Predicted Winner: Leicester
- Chelsea vs Hull – Predicted Winner: Chelsea
Saturday’s Action
- Sheffield Wednesday vs Swansea – Predicted Winner: Swansea
- Brighton vs Coventry – Predicted Winner: Brighton
- West Brom vs Southampton – Predicted Outcome: Draw
- Huddersfield vs Manchester United – Predicted Winner: Manchester United
Sunday Showdown
- Rochdale vs Tottenham – Predicted Winner: Tottenham
Monday Night Football
- Wigan vs Manchester City – Predicted Winner: Manchester City
TV Coverage and Highlights
Chelsea vs Hull – Friday, 20:00 BT Sport 2
Playing at home against a Championship side, Chelsea will fancy their chances of progressing without much trouble. With key fixtures coming up against Barcelona in the Champions League and a tight race for the top-four in the Premier League, avoiding a replay is crucial for them. Hull, who have struggled in the Championship, will hope that the FA Cup provides a much-needed boost. They will need to be at their best and capitalize on any Chelsea errors to cause an upset.
Sheffield Wednesday vs Swansea – Saturday, 12:30 BT Sport 2
Carlos Carvalhal returns to Hillsborough as Swansea’s manager, taking on his former club Sheffield Wednesday. This match has the potential to be the highlight of the weekend, especially if Wednesday can rediscover their form. Unfortunately, recent performances have been lackluster, with the team struggling to build any momentum. For Swansea, a disciplined approach could see them through, as Wednesday’s recent struggles work in their favor.
Huddersfield vs Manchester United – Saturday, 17:30 BT Sport 2
This Premier League clash features a top team facing off against a side battling at the bottom. Although Manchester United are the favorites, both teams will likely be focusing on their league positions, which could lead to squad rotation. With United’s upcoming European commitments, changes are even more likely. Despite this, United’s squad depth should still pose significant problems for Huddersfield, who are in the midst of a relegation fight.
Rochdale vs Tottenham – Sunday, 16:00 BBC One
Rochdale have an opportunity to play the role of giant killers as they host Tottenham. The League One side will be motivated, but Spurs, who have regained their form following a brief dip, will pose a significant challenge. With priorities like the Champions League and a top-four Premier League finish, Tottenham may rest some players. Nonetheless, they should still have enough quality to overcome Rochdale.
Wigan vs Manchester City – Monday, 19:55 BBC One
Wigan face the daunting task of taking on Manchester City, a team that has been in sensational form this year. City are all but certain to clinch the Premier League title, are set to play in the League Cup final, and are favorites to advance in the Champions League. Adding the FA Cup to their trophy haul seems a realistic possibility. Wigan will need to take any chances that come their way and hope for a minor miracle to get a result.
Betting Odds and Tips
With five out of the eight fixtures being broadcast on TV, it’s a great weekend for punters. The four standout bets include:
- Chelsea (1/5)
- Manchester United (4/9)
- Tottenham (1/6)
- Manchester City (1/6)
Should these favorites win, many accumulator bets could prove successful. For those seeking value, Swansea’s odds of 5/4 against a struggling Sheffield Wednesday might appeal. Leicester are priced at 1/2 to defeat Sheffield United, while Brighton’s odds of 4/11 make them another likely winner at home against Coventry. West Brom vs. Southampton is the match with the highest potential for a draw, priced at 23/10.
Exciting Betting Offers for This Weekend
33/1 Odds on Manchester United to Beat Huddersfield with Coral
If you fancy Manchester United to secure a win against Huddersfield, Coral’s special offer of 33/1 odds for new customers is worth considering. The offer presents a fantastic opportunity, as the standard odds for a United victory are much lower. Be sure to check out this promotion if you’re in the market for a new betting account.
William Hill Acca Insurance for Five-Team Accumulators
Accumulator bets are popular every week, but with several attractive options available, this week is especially favorable for them. William Hill’s acca insurance gives you your stake back if your accumulator loses by just one selection. This offer is open to both new and existing customers and provides an extra safety net for your bet.
Betfred’s Double Delight and Hat-Trick Heaven for Goal Scorers
For those interested in betting on first goal scorers in the weekend’s televised games, Betfred’s “Double Delight and Hat-Trick Heaven” offer is worth exploring. If your chosen player scores the first goal, you get paid at standard odds. However, if they score a second goal, you’ll receive double the odds. Should they complete a hat-trick, you’ll get paid at triple the odds. This promotion is available for the following matches:
- Chelsea vs Hull
- Sheffield Wednesday vs Swansea
- Huddersfield vs Manchester United
For first goal scorer bets, Betfred’s promotion is an excellent choice.