The FA Cup 3rd round is one of the most anticipated weekends in English football. With Premier League giants joining the competition, it’s a chance for lower-league teams to create historic upsets while top-tier clubs aim to avoid early exits. The matches on 11-12 January 2025 promise thrilling football, passionate fans, and plenty of drama. Let’s dive into the top fixtures of the weekend, complete with kick-off times, predictions, and betting tips.
FA Cup Fixtures and Predictions
1. Arsenal vs. Manchester United
- Date & Time: Sunday, 12 January 2025, 17:00
A marquee clash at the Emirates Stadium sees Arsenal hosting Manchester United. Arsenal’s strong home form positions them as slight favourites, while United’s inconsistent performances this season add to their challenges.
Prediction: Arsenal win (2-1)
Betting Tip: Consider an Arsenal win; combining this with both teams to score could enhance returns.
2. Liverpool vs. Accrington Stanley
- Date & Time: Saturday, 11 January 2025, 14:15
Liverpool welcomes League Two side Accrington Stanley to Anfield. Despite potential squad rotation, Liverpool’s depth should secure a comfortable victory.
Prediction: Liverpool win (4-0)
Betting Tip: Liverpool to win with a -3.0 handicap.
3. Chelsea vs. Morecambe
- Date & Time: Saturday, 11 January 2025, 17:00
Chelsea faces Morecambe at Stamford Bridge. This fixture offers Chelsea an opportunity to regain form, and they are expected to dominate.
Prediction: Chelsea win (3-0)
Betting Tip: Chelsea to win both halves.
4. Tamworth vs. Tottenham Hotspur
- Date & Time: Sunday, 12 January 2025, 14:30
Non-league Tamworth hosts Tottenham Hotspur, aiming for a historic upset. However, Tottenham’s quality should see them through comfortably.
Prediction: Tottenham win (3-0)
Betting Tip: Tottenham to win with a -2.5 handicap.
5. Manchester City vs. Salford City
- Date & Time: Saturday, 11 January 2025, 19:45
Manchester City takes on Salford City at the Etihad Stadium. City’s attacking prowess suggests a high-scoring affair.
Prediction: Manchester City win (5-0)
Betting Tip: Manchester City to win with a -4.0 handicap.
6. Crystal Palace vs. Bristol Rovers
- Date & Time: Saturday, 11 January 2025, 17:00
Crystal Palace hosts Bristol Rovers at Selhurst Park. Palace’s Premier League experience should see them advance without major issues.
Prediction: Crystal Palace win (2-0)
Betting Tip: Crystal Palace to win to nil.
7. Norwich City vs. Brighton & Hove Albion
- Date & Time: Saturday, 11 January 2025, 17:00
Norwich City takes on Brighton at Carrow Road. Brighton, enjoying a solid Premier League season, are likely to edge this encounter.
Prediction: Brighton win (1-0)
Betting Tip: Under 2.5 goals.
8. Southampton vs. Swansea City
- Date & Time: Saturday, 11 January 2025, 17:00
Southampton meets Swansea City in a clash that could see goals from both sides. Southampton’s Premier League experience may give them the upper hand.
Prediction: Southampton win (2-1)
Betting Tip: Both teams to score.
Conclusion
The FA Cup third round never fails to deliver excitement, and this year’s fixtures promise to be no different. From potential upsets to clashes between football giants, there’s something for everyone. While Premier League sides like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City are favourites, the beauty of the FA Cup lies in its unpredictability. Whether you’re betting or just watching, this weekend’s action is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Bet responsibly, and enjoy the magic of the cup!
Related article: WATCH: Arsenal’s Carabao Cup Hopes Dented by Newcastle’s 2-0 Triumph
