THE FA Cup takes centre stage this Sunday as Chelsea and Man Utd look to join Arsenal in the final.
The world’s oldest cup competition is back and serving up a heavyweight semi-final clash at Wembley, while we’ve also got selections for a key game in the Premier League’s European race.
Anthony Martial has been in superb form for UnitedCredit: AFP or Licensors
Man Utd vs Chelsea – FA Cup, Sunday 6pm
This has the potential to be an absolute cracker.
Man Utd’s fortunes have changed for the better since January and they actually resemble a football team again.
Amazing what you can achieve when you put round pegs in round holes and play your best players in the correct positions.
United haven’t lifted the FA Cup since 2016 and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be desperate to give fans some silverware after a topsy-turvy last two years.
Chelsea meanwhile have been prolific in this competition since the turn of the century, winning it five times and twice finishing as runners-up.
Frank Lampard’s men have two extra days to prepare for this one and we expect that to be a big factor.
United had named the same side for FIVE straight games before Thursday’s clash at Palace, but Ole stuck to his guns and made just one enforced change despite the packed schedule.
We reckon the quick turnaround could have a real say on this one at Wembley, where a fast start could be crucial.
United have won all three meetings this season, with the last a 2-0 victory at Stamford Bridge shortly before lockdown.
Despite that, Chelsea have stepped up in the big games since and have only let themselves down when teams have sat back and asked to break them down.
We’re looking primarily at the losses against West Ham and Sheffield United for examples of that, but remember they’ve beaten Man City, Leicester and Liverpool since March.
The 21/20 on Chelsea making it through to the final is FAR too big, in our opinion.
Lampard loves this competition and will go full strength, while we also expect goals from both sides.
Both teams to score is 7/10 and an easy bet to back, but we also like the even money on Chelsea to win EITHER half.
That’s a massive price in what could be an open game, with United’s defence still under scrutiny despite their excellent recent attacking form.
This could be a cup tie settled on a moment of brilliance – or a set piece.
Willian has been in terrific form in recent weeks although reports suggest that the Brazilian might be on his way out of the Bridge this summer.
He’s playing out of his skin regardless and is the main man for Chelsea on penalties and freekicks.
16/5 to net anytime? That’s absolutely huge, netting you £32 profit from a tenner bet.
SunSport’s best bets
*All odds from Ladbrokes and correct at time of publication.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
