Manchester United vs Fulham: Preview, Prediction, H2H and Lineups | FA Cup

As Manchester United resumes their quest for consecutive FA Cup victories, they prepare to face fellow Premier League contenders Fulham in a high-stakes match at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon. This fixture promises to be a thrilling contest as both teams vie for a spot in the quarter-finals of the prestigious tournament.

Manchester United’s journey in the FA Cup has been marked by both controversy and determination. In the fourth round, they secured a 2-1 victory over Leicester City in a match that left many talking. A contentious goal by Harry Maguire, who netted a winner from an offside position, sparked debates about the absence of VAR technology. Despite the controversy, Manchester United’s resilience was evident as they fought back to claim the win.

The Red Devils have shown their mettle in the Premier League as well, recently securing a 3-2 triumph over Ipswich Town. However, this victory came after a challenging period where they had managed only one point from three league games. Currently sitting 14th in the standings, Manchester United’s best chance of returning to European competition this season might be through the FA Cup.

Historically, Manchester United has a strong record in the FA Cup, having won their last 14 fifth-round ties since being eliminated by Liverpool in the 2005-06 season. This rich history in the competition provides them with added motivation to continue their title defense.

Fulham, on the other hand, is on a quest for their first-ever FA Cup triumph. Their journey to the fifth round has seen them overcome Watford and former FA Cup winners Wigan Athletic. In their most recent FA Cup match, Rodrigo Muniz played a pivotal role by scoring twice to secure a 2-1 victory over Wigan.

Marco Silva’s men have been impressive in the Premier League as well, currently involved in the race for European spots. Fulham’s knack for success on the road has been a standout feature of their campaign, with four consecutive away victories and scoring twice in each of their last seven away matches.

Interestingly, the last team to prevent Fulham from scoring on the road was Manchester United in the opening weekend of the 2024-25 Premier League season. Since then, the Red Devils have also edged out Fulham with a 1-0 victory at Craven Cottage. Additionally, Manchester United emerged victorious in a memorable 2022-23 FA Cup quarter-final clash, which saw Aleksandar Mitrovic’s meltdown.

Manchester United will be without several key players for this crucial fixture. Patrick Dorgu, who received a red card in their recent match against Ipswich Town, will begin a three-game domestic ban. Additionally, Lisandro Martinez (ACL), Amad Diallo (ankle), Luke Shaw (calf), Jonny Evans (back), and Mason Mount (thigh) remain sidelined. Kobbie Mainoo, Toby Collyer, Tom Heaton, and Altay Bayindir are also expected to miss out due to unspecified concerns.

In Dorgu’s absence, Noussair Mazraoui is likely to be recalled to the starting lineup. The Moroccan international replaced Alejandro Garnacho in midweek, and Garnacho’s availability for this match is doubtful due to a knock. However, manager Ruben Amorim remains hopeful that Garnacho will be fit in time.

Fulham also faces some selection challenges, with Sasa Lukic’s suspension for accumulating 10 Premier League yellow cards not affecting his availability for FA Cup matches. Emile Smith Rowe is a doubt due to an ankle injury sustained against Crystal Palace. Meanwhile, Reiss Nelson (thigh), Harry Wilson (foot), and Kenny Tete (knee) remain sidelined.

Rodrigo Muniz’s recent heroics in the FA Cup and Premier League make him a strong contender for a starting role ahead of Raul Jimenez. Former Manchester United player Andreas Pereira is expected to play a crucial role in Fulham’s midfield, especially in the absence of Smith Rowe.

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• Goalkeeper: Onana
• Defenders: Yoro, De Ligt, Maguire
• Midfielders: Mazraoui, Ugarte, Casemiro, Dalot
• Forwards: Garnacho, Fernandes, Zirkzee

• Goalkeeper: Leno
• Defenders: Castagne, Andersen, Bassey, Robinson
• Midfielders: Berge, Lukic
• Attacking Midfielders: Traore, Pereira, Iwobi
• Forward: Muniz

Despite Manchester United’s struggles to keep a clean sheet at home, their attacking prowess and determination make them favorites to edge out Fulham in this FA Cup encounter. Fulham’s goal-scoring form on the road will likely see them find the back of the net, but Manchester United’s experience and hunger to defend their title should see them through to the next round.

Soccer Baba Predicted Score: Manchester United 2-1 Fulham

This FA Cup clash between Manchester United and Fulham promises to be an exciting and closely contested affair. Both teams have their strengths and weaknesses, and the outcome could hinge on key moments and individual brilliance. As the match unfolds at the iconic Old Trafford, fans can expect a thrilling encounter that showcases the magic of the FA Cup.

Stay tuned for what promises to be a captivating battle as Manchester United aims to retain their FA Cup crown, while Fulham seeks to make history with their first-ever triumph in the competition.