We’ve reached the FA Cup fifth round and this is where the remaining sixteen clubs can really start to dream about a place at Wembley. There are drastically different teams left in the competition and with so much on the line, we’re excited to see how these eight games play out. Today, we’ll be taking a look at one of the most interesting matches of the round as Nottingham Forest play host to Manchester United.
Nottingham Forest Form GuideThere’s a lot of uncertainty surrounding Nottingham Forest right now. While there’s excitement stemming from Nuno Espirito Santo’s start as manager, they also have a possible points deduction hanging over their head. The priority is going to be staying in the Premier League, but you never know what could happen in the cup if they’re able to spring a surprise at the City Ground.
Forest have been made to really work for their place in the fifth round. They were held to a 2-2 draw by Blackpool in the third round before winning the replay 3-2. Then, after a 0-0 draw with Bristol City in the fourth, they drew the replay 1-1 and edged through 5-3 on penalties.
Manchester United Form GuideManchester United supporters have spent the last decade experiencing brief moments of joy, but for the most part, their inconsistency has really hurt them on the pitch. Erik ten Hag is the latest manager to try and make a difference at Old Trafford, but there are still far more questions than answers for the Red Devils as we approach a critical few months for them.
United made the short trip to face Wigan in the third round and edged out a 2-0 win. They proceeded to battle Newport County and while they did win 4-2, the minnows really pushed ten Hag’s men all the way in what proved to be a scintillating cup tie.
Match PredictionForest have troubles of their own to deal with but in a clash like this with so much on the line, you’d have to imagine they’re going to really come at United with everything they’ve got. Given the stakes, and given how both teams play, we’re going to shoot for a prediction of over 2.5 goals scored.
