Manchester City have been dominant in the FA Cup this season. In the third round, they scored ten goals against Exeter City, becoming the first top-flight club to reach double figures in the competition since Bill Nicholson's Tottenham Hotspur netted 13 times against Crewe in 1960. They then defeated Newcastle 3-0, thrashed Liverpool 4-0, and beat Salford 2-0 in the fourth round. This will be their eighth consecutive FA Cup semi-final, a period covering 21 matches against lower-league teams, all of which City have won with a cumulative score of 84-11.
Southampton's Challenge
Southampton, however, have reasons to be confident. They held City to a draw at St Mary's last season and gave them a good game at the Etihad earlier in the campaign. Additionally, a Nathan Jones-inspired League Cup victory in early 2023 shows they can beat City. Moreover, Southampton impressively defeated Arsenal in the quarter-finals, demonstrating their cup form.
Key Factors
City may prioritize the Premier League, with Rodri unlikely to be risked. Pep Guardiola is not immune to FA Cup upsets, as Wigan proved. Southampton, under Tonda Eckert, are also up for the cup and could cause problems.
Both clubs are dreaming big. City aim to become the first team to reach four consecutive FA Cup finals, targeting their third title in eight seasons and a possible domestic treble. Southampton want to mark the 50th anniversary of their proudest day with a second FA Cup win, needing to reach their first final since 2003.
Kick-off is at 5:15 PM BST. It promises to be a thrilling encounter.
