We look at the FA Cup Semi Final clashes taking place across Saturday and Sunday at the Wembley Stadium in London and suggest a bet in each game.
Let’s begin with a look at the Outright Betting Markets where Manchester City lead the race at 1.50, followed closely by Chelsea at 3.75, while Leeds and Southampton remain in contention at bigger prices.
Click here for the latest FA Cup Outright Betting Markets.
SATURDAY:
MANCHESTER CITY vs SOUTHAMPTON
Manchester City booked their place in this clash with an emphatic 4-0 victory over Liverpool in the previous round. Their cup performances have been dominant, showcasing both attacking quality and defensive control.
Their recent domestic form has also been excellent. City come into this match on the back of a 2-1 win over Arsenal and had previously beaten Chelsea 3-0 away while also securing draws against West Ham and Nottingham Forest.
Southampton have been one of the standout stories in this year’s competition. They reached the Semi-Final after a 2-1 home win over Arsenal and had earlier knocked out Fulham and Leicester. Their cup run has been built on resilience and clinical finishing.
Their recent domestic form has been outstanding. Southampton are unbeaten in a lengthy run, including a 2-2 draw with Bristol City and wins over Swansea, Blackburn and Derby in the Championship where they currently sit 4th and dreaming about a return to the EPL.
Head-to-Head
City recorded a 1-0 home win last season in the Premier League, while the reverse fixture ended 0-0.
Betting – Click here to bet
Manchester City 1.23
Draw 6.75
Southampton 11.00
Verdict
Manchester City have been dominant in both this competition and recent head-to-head meetings. Southampton arrive in excellent form and should be competitive, but City’s quality and depth should ultimately prove decisive and I am backing them to win by 2 goals exactly.
BET: 3 way handicap, Manchester City -2 the draw at 4.25
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SUNDAY:
CHELSEA vs LEEDS
Chelsea progressed to the Round of 4 with a dominant 7-0 win over Port Vale in the previous round, having earlier beaten Wrexham 4-2 and Hull 4-0 away from home. Their cup results have been convincing despite inconsistencies elsewhere.
Their recent domestic and European form has been poor. Chelsea have suffered defeats to Brighton, Manchester United and Manchester City in recent weeks, while also struggling in Europe.
Leeds secured their place in the Semi Final with an impressive 3-2 away win over West Ham, having earlier beaten Norwich 3-0 and progressed past Birmingham on penalties. They have shown strong character throughout their run in the FA Cup.
Their recent league form has improved. Leeds come into this match after a 3-0 win over Wolves and an impressive 2-1 away victory against Manchester United. Prior to that they had drawn multiple matches, and their latest test ended 2-2 with Bournemouth on Wednesday.
Head-to-Head
Chelsea hold the historical edge although recent meetings have been competitive. The sides drew 2-2 earlier this season, while Leeds claimed a 3-1 home win in December.
Betting – Click here to bet
Chelsea 2.15
Draw 3.50
Leeds 3.25
Verdict
Chelsea’s recent form is a major concern, particularly defensively. Leeds arrive with momentum and have already proven capable of competing with top sides. This looks like a more even contest than the market suggests.
BET: The draw at 3.50
Note: All prices are correct at the time of writing but are subject to change.
