FA Cup Third Round Weekend: Match Previews, Predictions & Odds

Last updated: 9 January 2025 by Leon Marshall

This weekend’s televised FA Cup fixtures promise thrilling encounters, and in our previews, we focus on four exciting matchups. Aston Villa faces a challenging match against Premier League rivals West Ham United, while Leeds United welcomes Harrogate Town in a Yorkshire derby. Manchester City will host lower-league Salford City in a classic David vs. Goliath battle, and Arsenal takes on Manchester United in a clash of titans.

Our analysis provides key stats and expert betting tips, highlighting team form, historical records, and player performances. Whether you’re interested in potential upsets, team strengths, or crafting intelligent bet builders at prominent football betting sites, our previews are designed to enhance your betting strategy with insightful guidance.

FA Cup Preview – Aston Villa vs West Ham United

Aston Villa are set to face West Ham United in an enticing FA Cup clash. With a strong record at home, Villa will be keen to extend their winning streak, whereas West Ham aim to bounce back from recent setbacks. As both teams gear up for this knockout encounter, it promises a fierce battle at Villa Park.

Key Statistics:

Aston Villa at Home: Aston Villa have been impressive at home, recently securing victories against teams like Manchester City with a 2-1 scoreline and defeating Newcastle United 3-0. This consistent performance on home turf makes them formidable opponents.

West Ham’s Recent Form: West Ham have encountered challenging times on the road, suffering defeats to Liverpool (0-5) and Manchester City (1-4). Despite these losses, they will look to rally and challenge Villa’s stronghold. The Hammers’ will be hoping for a new manager bounce with Graham Potter taking over from Julen Lopetegui.

Head-to-Head:

Aston Villa and West Ham both field a similar 4-2-3-1 formation, setting the stage for an intriguing tactical matchup. Historically, West Ham have struggled at Villa Park, adding another layer of complexity to the encounter.

Injuries and Team News:

Aston Villa: Pau Torres, Jaden Philogene, and John McGinn are out, affecting defensive stability and midfield creativity.

West Ham: Michail Antonio, Jarrod Bowen, and Lukasz Fabianski are unavailable, posing significant challenges in attack and goalkeeping.

Factors to Impact the Game:

Aston Villa’s home form gives them a strategic advantage, further bolstered by West Ham’s recent lacklustre away performances. Villa’s attacking duo, Ollie Watkins and Leon Bailey, could exploit West Ham’s depleted defence.

Scoreline Prediction:

Aston Villa 2-1 West Ham United

Aston Villa’s strong home record and West Ham’s injury woes suggest Villa may edge out the visitors, although West Ham’s resilience might see them on the scoresheet.

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Betting Tip:

• Suggested Bet Builder: Aston Villa to Win, Ollie Watkins Anytime Goalscorer, Over 2.5 Goals.

FA Cup Preview – Leeds United vs Harrogate Town

Match Overview:

Leeds United are set to host Harrogate Town in what promises to be an exciting FA Cup encounter. Leeds, currently in strong form, will look to leverage their home advantage and superior league position to progress in the tournament. Harrogate Town, however, will be motivated to cause an upset and make a mark on this competition.

Key Statistics:

Leeds United’s Home Advantage: Leeds have been formidable at home, with their attacking prowess contributing significantly to their recent league successes.

Harrogate Town’s Challenges: Harrogate Town has had a tough season in League Two, sitting near the bottom of the table, but will see this fixture as an opportunity to rise to the occasion.

Head-to-Head:

This marks a unique encounter as the teams have not frequently crossed paths in competitive settings, adding an air of unpredictability to the clash.

Injuries and Team News:

Leeds United: Leeds will be looking to field their strongest squad, although key players Pascal Struijk and Patrick Bamford, both recovering from injuries, remain uncertain for the weekend. Junior Firpo might make a return, offering additional defence options. Manager Daniel Farke will provide updates on the fitness of the rest of the team, including Ilia Gruev, who is close to rejoining the first team after recovering from knee surgery.

Harrogate Town: Captain Josh Falkingham will be unable to participate in the FA Cup tie against Leeds United due to a serious lower leg injury sustained in December’s match against AFC Wimbledon. Following a complicated situation involving a chipped bone fragment and an unstable joint, Falkingham is set to undergo surgery, leading to an expected recovery period of around 12 months. His absence is a significant blow to both the team and Falkingham himself.

Factors to Impact the Game:

Leeds’ superior attacking talent and experience in a higher division should give them a distinct advantage. Meanwhile, Harrogate Town will need to focus on solid defensive organisation and quick counter-attacks.

Scoreline Prediction:

Leeds United 3-0 Harrogate Town

Leeds United’s attacking strength at home and Harrogate’s defensive vulnerabilities suggest that the hosts could secure a comfortable win.

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Betting Tip:

• Suggested Bet Builder: Leeds to Win, Over 2.5 Goals, Joel Piroe Anytime Goalscorer.

FA Cup Preview – Manchester City vs Salford City

Match Overview:

Manchester City will host Salford City in what is expected to be a David vs. Goliath clash in the FA Cup. City is looking to build upon its recent Premier League victories and affirm its dominance, while Salford is eager to showcase its form and challenge a top-tier team.

Key Statistics:

Manchester City’s Home Dominance: City has exhibited good form in recent home matches, including a comprehensive 4-1 victory over West Ham. Their ball control and attacking prowess make them formidable opponents at the Etihad Stadium.

Salford City’s Form: Salford City has been on an impressive run, winning six consecutive matches in League Two, which has placed them in automatic promotion spots. Their confidence and recent performances will provide motivation for this daunting fixture.

Head-to-Head:

This fixture marks a rare encounter between these two sides, adding a fresh layer of anticipation for both sets of supporters.

Injuries and Team News:

Manchester City: City are expected to be without several key players, including Rodri, Oscar Bobb, and Rúben Dias, all sidelined due to injury concerns.

Salford City: Salford City arrive with a relatively fit squad and no major injuries reported, allowing them to field their strongest team.

Factors to Impact the Game:

Manchester City’s superior squad depth and attacking capabilities are expected to dominate proceedings. Salford must rely on disciplined defensive organisation and capitalise on counter-attacks to pose a threat.

Scoreline Prediction:

Manchester City 4-0 Salford City

The class difference may prove too great for Salford City to overcome, with Manchester City likely to secure a commanding victory.

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Betting Tip:

• Suggested Bet Builder: Manchester City to Win, Over 3.5 Goals, Erling Haaland Anytime Goalscorer.

FA Cup Preview – Arsenal vs Manchester United

Match Overview:

Arsenal will host Manchester United in a highly anticipated FA Cup clash. Arsenal, currently sitting second in the Premier League, are in strong form and will be eager to utilise their home advantage. Manchester United, despite some recent struggles, will look to reignite their campaign with a strong performance in this knockout fixture.

Key Statistics:

Arsenal’s Recent Form: Arsenal have won three of their last five matches across all competitions, including victories against Crystal Palace (5-1) and Brentford (3-1). Their attacking prowess has been a key factor in their recent success.

Manchester United’s Challenges: United have endured a challenging period, with only one win in their last five matches. A recent 2-2 draw against Liverpool shows their potential for resilience but also highlights defensive vulnerabilities.

Head-to-Head:

In their last six meetings, Arsenal have won four times against Manchester United, indicating a historical edge in recent encounters. This adds a psychological advantage for the Gunners as they look to maintain their dominance.

Injuries and Team News:

Arsenal: Arsenal will be missing Bukayo Saka due to a thigh injury, a significant absence that impacts their attacking capabilities. Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu also remain sidelined with injuries.

Manchester United: United have several players out, including Mason Mount and Victor Lindelof, which could affect their squad depth and defensive options.

Factors to Impact the Game:

Arsenal’s home advantage and superior form make them the favourites. However, Manchester United’s potential for resilience and their attacking options could make for a competitive encounter.

Scoreline Prediction:

Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United

Arsenal’s recent form and attacking options suggest they might edge this encounter, but Manchester United are capable of making it a close contest.

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Betting Tip:

• Suggested Bet Builder: Arsenal to Win, Both Teams to Score, Kai Havertz Anytime Goalscorer.

This article’s statistics are obtained from WhoScored.com, and all betting odds are supplied by bet365.

Remember, odds can fluctuate over time. This content is intended for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Always gamble responsibly. For responsible gambling resources, refer to the links in the footer of this page.