Preston Face Aston Villa Test as Manchester City and Brighton Eye Semi-Final Spots in Wide-Open Competition
The FA Cup quarter-final draw has set the stage for what could be the most unpredictable final eight in years, with Championship side Preston North End handed a dream home tie against Aston Villa. Preston, who comfortably defeated Burnley in the fifth round, will now face a stern test as Unai Emery’s high-flying Villa visit Deepdale in a bid to keep their cup dreams alive.
In a tournament that has already seen its fair share of drama, the absence of traditional powerhouses like Manchester United, who were knocked out by Fulham in a penalty shootout, has left the competition wide open. Manchester City, the only remaining member of the Premier League’s “Big Six,” will face Bournemouth as they aim to return to the final after last season’s heartbreaking defeat. Pep Guardiola’s side overcame a scare against Plymouth Argyle to reach this stage, but Andoni Iraola’s Cherries, who have never reached the semi-finals, will be eager to make history.
Brighton, meanwhile, continue their quest for a third FA Cup semi-final in seven years after a dramatic extra-time victory over Newcastle. Fabian Hürzeler’s side endured a rollercoaster match at St James’ Park, which saw red cards for Anthony Gordon and Tariq Lamptey and a late Fabian Schar goal controversially ruled out for offside. Danny Welbeck’s decisive strike in extra time sealed their progression, setting up a clash with either Nottingham Forest or Ipswich Town, who play their fifth-round tie on Monday.
The final quarter-final pits Fulham against Crystal Palace in an all-London derby. Fulham, who stunned Manchester United in a penalty shootout, are aiming to reach their first FA Cup final since 1975. Marco Silva’s side took the lead through Calvin Bassey before Bruno Fernandes equalised, but missed penalties from Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee sent United crashing out.
Crystal Palace, under new manager Oliver Glasner, booked their place with a hard-fought win over Millwall, marked by an early incident involving Liam Roberts’ dangerous challenge on Jean-Philippe Mateta. Goals from Daniel Munoz and Eddie Nketiah, along with an own goal from Japhet Tanganga, secured their spot in the last eight.
With no clear favourite left in the competition, the FA Cup promises more drama and surprises as the quarter-finals approach. For Preston, the chance to host Aston Villa represents a golden opportunity to continue their fairy-tale run, while the likes of Manchester City and Brighton will be determined to edge closer to Wembley glory.
As the road to the final heats up, one thing is certain: this year’s FA Cup is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.
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