The magic of the FA Cup is alive and kicking as we head into a thrilling fifth-round weekend! With big stories brewing, unexpected heroes ready to shine, and drama guaranteed, here’s what to keep an eye on:
1. El Ghazi’s Hero’s Return
Anwar El Ghazi is back at Villa Park! Cardiff might be fighting relegation, but El Ghazi will be loving this trip. A key part of Villa’s 2019 promotion, he’ll get a warm welcome, but will he haunt his old club?
2. Millwall Reunion for Esse?
Romain Esse left Millwall for Palace in January, but he might finally get a real shot under Oliver Glasner against his former club. A script written for heartbreak or a fairytale?
3. Preston vs. Burnley: Expect a Snoozefest?
This one screams ‘low-scoring affair.’ Their last two meetings saw a grand total of three shots on target – yawn! If goals are your thing, maybe skip this one.
4. Bournemouth’s Big Chance
The FA Cup needs fresh blood! With the ‘big six’ hogging the trophy, Bournemouth have a golden opportunity. They face Wolves, who are distracted by their relegation battle. Can the Cherries make history?
5. City’s Only Shot at Silverware
No Champions League, no Carabao Cup, miles off in the league – the FA Cup is all Manchester City have left. Guardiola’s pride won’t allow a trophyless season. Expect full throttle against their Championship opponents.
6. Plymouth’s Away Curse – Broken?
They couldn’t buy an away win earlier this season, but under new boss Miron Muslic, Plymouth have improved on the road. But how will they fare against Pep’s City?
7. Newcastle’s Selection Dilemma
Eddie Howe’s got bigger fish to fry – Champions League qualification and a potential Carabao Cup final. Will he rest stars like Isak, or will he go all-in against Brighton?
8. Fulham’s 116-Year Flashback
In 1908, Fulham stunned Manchester United in the FA Cup. Can history repeat itself? Stranger things have happened in this competition!
9. Ipswich’s Nightmare Set-Piece Problem
Nottingham Forest are one of the league’s best from dead-ball situations. Ipswich just conceded three set-piece goals to Man United. Uh-oh!
10. VAR is Back! (Rejoice… or Groan?)
Love it or hate it, VAR returns for the fifth round, along with semi-automated offside tech. No more dodgy decisions? Yeah, right!
Get ready for an electrifying FA Cup weekend – drama, goals, and cup magic are coming your way!
