Team News:

Manchester United will be without defender Patrick Dorgu, who is suspended following a red card in their previous match against Ipswich.

Prediction:

While Fulham has demonstrated strong performances in the FA Cup, Manchester United’s home advantage and recent head-to-head success suggest they might edge this encounter. A predicted scoreline is a 2-1 victory for Manchester United.

Key Players to Watch:

• Manchester United:

  • Bruno Fernandes – The Portuguese playmaker remains United’s creative force and will be crucial in breaking down Fulham’s defense.
  • Rasmus Højlund – The young Danish striker has been in good form and will be looking to add to his goal tally.
  • Lisandro Martínez – Scored the winner in the last meeting and will be key in keeping Fulham’s attack at bay.

Fulham:

• Andreas Pereira – The former Manchester United midfielder will be eager to impress against his old club.
• Willian – The experienced winger provides creativity and can trouble United’s defense.
• Raúl Jiménez – A dangerous striker who can capitalize on defensive mistakes.

Tactical Battle

• Manchester United: Under Ruben Amorim, United has shifted towards a more possession-based style, but defensive issues remain a concern. The team will look to control the midfield and use their attacking talents to break down Fulham’s defense.
• Fulham: Marco Silva’s side is well-organized and disciplined. They may play on the counterattack, looking to exploit United’s defensive frailties.

Possible Lineups

Manchester United (4-2-3-1)

GK: André Onana
DEF: Diogo Dalot, Raphaël Varane, Lisandro Martínez, Luke Shaw
MID: Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo
ATT: Antony, Bruno Fernandes (C), Alejandro Garnacho
ST: Rasmus Højlund

Fulham (4-3-3)

GK: Bernd Leno
DEF: Kenny Tete, Tosin Adarabioyo, Tim Ream, Antonee Robinson
MID: João Palhinha, Harrison Reed, Andreas Pereira
ATT: Willian, Raúl Jiménez, Bobby De Cordova-Reid

Match Scenarios to Watch

1. Early Pressure from United:

   • Manchester United will likely try to dominate possession and push Fulham back early in the game. If they score in the first 15 minutes, it could be a comfortable night for the Red Devils.

2. Fulham’s Counterattack Threat:

   • With pacey wingers like Willian and an intelligent forward like Raúl Jiménez, Fulham could exploit United’s defensive gaps, especially on the break.

3. Battle in Midfield:

   • João Palhinha vs. Casemiro will be a crucial matchup. If Fulham’s midfield disrupts United’s play, they could gain a foothold in the game.

Final Score Prediction

• Manchester United 2-1 Fulham
• Goal Scorers: Højlund, Fernandes (United); Pereira (Fulham)
• Man of the Match: Bruno Fernandes

Potential Game-Changing Moments

1. Set-Piece Danger:

   • Both teams have strong aerial threats. United’s Lisandro Martínez and Raphael Varane will look to capitalize on corners, while Fulham’s Tosin Adarabioyo is a danger from set-pieces. A well-timed free kick or corner could decide the match.

2. Goalkeeper Performance:

   • André Onana’s shot-stopping ability could be crucial if Fulham manages to create chances. On the other end, Bernd Leno has been one of the Premier League’s most reliable keepers this season and could frustrate United’s attackers.

3. Impact Substitutes:

   • Manchester United: Marcus Rashford and Scott McTominay could come off the bench to change the game. Rashford’s pace will be useful against tired Fulham defenders.
   • Fulham: Alex Iwobi and Harry Wilson provide creativity and energy, potentially making a difference in the second half.

What’s at Stake?

• Manchester United:

  • A win would boost morale and keep their hopes of silverware alive in an otherwise disappointing season. Losing at home to Fulham would put more pressure on Ruben Amorim and raise further questions about the team’s future.

• Fulham:

  • This is a huge opportunity for Fulham to make a statement. If they win, they advance to the FA Cup quarterfinals and move one step closer to a rare piece of silverware. Marco Silva’s side will view this as a winnable game.

Fan Expectations & Atmosphere

• Old Trafford is expected to be packed with passionate United supporters, eager to see their team progress in the cup. However, frustration could grow if United struggles to break down Fulham’s defense.
• Fulham fans will travel in numbers, hoping for a memorable upset. They know their team has what it takes to compete with United, given their disciplined performances this season.

Final Thoughts:

As kickoff approaches, anticipation is building for this crucial FA Cup clash between Manchester United and Fulham. Both teams have different motivations heading into this game, with United desperate for a trophy amid an inconsistent season, while Fulham sees this as a golden opportunity to progress further in the competition.