Last updated & checked: 10/08/2021
One of the most interesting things about the FA Cup is that we often get to see teams of different abilities test their mettle against one another. With that said, we don’t sense a whole lot of confidence for Fulham heading into this match, and certainly not from the bookmakers. This is not because they are a weak side – just look at their rock solid Championship season. They have promotion in their sights and got here off the back of an outstanding 2-1 victory over Premier League side Aston Villa.
Unfortunately for them, their opponents aren’t just any top tier side. They are the defending champions Manchester City. Not only that but, thanks to Liverpool, they are looking to prove themselves elsewhere. Their wobbles in 2019 may provide some hope, but with only a single loss to their name this year, their reputation is well-earned.
Manchester City vs Fulham Prediction: Man City 3-1 Fulham
We aren’t going to beat around the bush here, we think it’s very likely that Manchester City will win. Nothing is ever set in stone in football, but that part of our prediction didn’t take an awful amount of consideration. This is more down to the strengths of City than the weaknesses of Fulham. Put simply, the performance standards of City are consistently better than the Cottagers by a wide margin. On top of that, they are very motivated, and Fulham are down their top striker due to the injury of Aleksandar Mitrović. With that in mind, our scoreline prediction is 3-1 to Manchester City.
Our recommended tip: Anytime goalscorer Anthony Knockaert
Some of you may be surprised that we have predicted Fulham to score at all. However, Fulham have proven resilient, even in defeat. For instance, in their last four losses, they managed to at least dirty their opponent’s sheets on three occasions. Plus, Manchester City have been conceding more goals than they should in 2020, including against Crystal Palace, Everton, Leicester, Port Vale and – the team that Fulham beat to get here – Aston Villa. We think based on recent performances and injuries, Anthony Knockaert is the most likely man to break through City’s defences. You’ll get competitive 15/2 odds on this prediction from Betfair.
Previous matches
Although not known as especially fierce rivals, these sides have actually been battling each other for over a century now. Not only that but for some time, they were quite evenly matched. Unfortunately for Fulham, that was now quite long ago. The last time the Cottagers managed to topple Manchester City was back in 2009 and since then, they’ve had 14 games. In fact, if City win this contest, they will be on a nine-match winning streak in this particular fixture. Sadly for Fulham, there’s little optimism to be found in the recent history books.
Top 3 FA Cup Bookies
Players to watch: Sergio Aguero & Anthony Knockaert
Manchester City: Sergio Aguero
While we’ve certainly seen plenty of improvements to Manchester City’s game since their (for them at least) fall from grace in the Premier League, there’s still a sense that reliability is paramount to remaining on track. And there’s arguably no one in their squad more reliable than the excellent Sergio Aguero. He reaffirmed his brilliance in a game-winning performance over Sheffield United.
Fulham: Anthony Knockaert
Considering our recommended tip, we could hardly go with anyone else here. To elaborate further, Anthony Knockaert has really come into his own in recent weeks, showcasing his talents against both Aston Villa and Middlesbrough. On top of that, he’s got experience against big teams that many lack, even playing in Brighton’s thrilling home victory over Manchester United in May 2018. Considering all this and Mitrović’s injury, he’s got to be considered the one to watch.
