The FA Cup brings an exciting matchup as Manchester United face Leicester City on February 8, 2025. This clash at Old Trafford is set to be a thrilling encounter between two teams with contrasting fortunes. Manchester United, the reigning FA Cup champions, have a strong legacy in the competition and will be eager to continue their dominance. Meanwhile, Leicester City, under the guidance of Ruud van Nistelrooy, will be looking to defy the odds and secure a crucial victory. The stakes are high, with both teams aiming for a deep FA Cup run, making this a must-watch contest for football fans.
Recent Form & Key Stats
Both teams have shown inconsistent form leading up to this fixture:
- Manchester United’s last five matches: L-W-W-W-L
- Leicester City’s last five matches: L-W-L-L-W
United has already overcome a tough challenge in this competition, defeating Arsenal in their previous FA Cup match. However, they face injury setbacks with Luke Shaw and Lisandro Martinez sidelined, which could impact their defensive strength against a determined Leicester squad.
Manchester United vs Leicester City Live Stream: Where to watch FA Cup?
Manchester United is gearing up to host Leicester City at Old Trafford, with the match kicking off at 1:30 A.M. IST. If you’re excited to catch the live action, you can tune in to Sony LIV for the live stream, or watch it on television via Sony Ten 2 and Ten 2 HD.
Manchester United vs Leicester City Prediction & Live Streaming
Best Betting Tips & Odds
- Leicester to win or draw: 3.34 (Good value given United’s defensive struggles)
- Manchester United win: 1.35 (Expected dominance at home)
- Leicester win: 7.47 (Underdog value bet)
- Draw: 5.33
- Over 3.5 goals: 2.13 (Potential for a high-scoring game)
- Both teams to score: 1.68 (United’s defensive injuries make this a strong bet)
In this matchup, Manchester United are the favorites, but Leicester should not be underestimated. Under Ruud van Nistelrooy, Leicester can spring surprises and pose a real threat. Manchester United’s odds to win stand at 1.35, but betting on Leicester to win or draw offers enticing value at 3.34. The FA Cup often brings surprises, and both teams’ inconsistencies highlight the potential for Leicester to exploit United’s injuries.
| Manchester United vs Leicester Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting tip | Odds |
| Leicester to win or draw | 3.34 |
Manchester United Team Analysis
Recent Performance
United’s form has been mixed, with a 2-0 win over FC FCSB in the Europa League standing out. Their defense has been shaky, conceding goals regularly, but they dominate possession, as seen in their 66% ball control in their last FA Cup match.
Manchester United has had a roller-coaster performance lately. Their recent 2-0 victory over FC FCSB in the Europa League was a bright spot amid mixed results. Despite their wins, United’s defense is shaky, as they’ve conceded in many games. Bruno Fernandes remains key, contributing significantly to their attack. In the FA Cup, they scored six goals while conceding four, highlighting both attacking prowess and defensive concerns. They controlled the ball with 66% possession in their last match, showing their fondness for keeping the ball. However, injuries have made defense a pressing concern, affecting team stability.
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Manchester United | Crystal Palace | 0 – 2 |
| FC FCSB | Manchester United | 0 – 2 |
| Fulham | Manchester United | 0 – 1 |
| Manchester United | Rangers | 2 – 1 |
| Manchester United | Brighton | 1 – 3 |
Manchester United Key Players
- Bruno Fernandes – The creative force in midfield
- Patrick Dorgu – Could strengthen a weakened defense
- Andre Onana – Under pressure, with rumors of Jan Oblak’s interest looming
- Eriksen & Casemiro – Key midfield stabilizers
- Rasmus Hojlund – Needs consistency in attack
Injury Concerns
United are missing key players:
- Luke Shaw (Hamstring Injury) – Expected return mid-February
- Mason Mount (Muscle Injury) – Expected return mid-February
- Jonny Evans (Physical discomfort) – Expected return mid-February
- Lisandro Martinez (Cruciate ligament injury) – Out until early 2026
Tactics & Formation
Under Ruben Amorim, United plays a 3-4-3 formation, emphasizing high possession and quick transitions. With key defensive absences, adaptability will be crucial.
Leicester City Team Analysis
Recent Performance
Leicester’s results have been unpredictable, including a 6-2 win over QPR and a 4-0 defeat to Everton. Their attack can be dangerous, but defensive inconsistency is a concern.
Key Players to Watch
- James Justin – Leading scorer in the FA Cup
- Wilfred Ndidi – Crucial for midfield battles
- Woyo Coulibaly – Defensive reinforcement
- Jeremy Monga & Jake Evans – Young talents who could surprise
- Jakub Stolarczyk – Goalkeeper expected to face heavy pressure
Injury Updates
Leicester has no injury concerns, giving van Nistelrooy full squad depth and tactical flexibility.
Tactics & Formation
Leicester may use a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 setup, focusing on quick counterattacks to exploit United’s defensive weaknesses. Ndidi’s presence will be key in controlling midfield battles.
Manchester United vs Leicester Head-to-Head Stats
Manchester United has dominated recent meetings:
- November 2024 (Premier League): United 3-0 Leicester
- EFL Cup: United 5-2 Leicester
- Previous five meetings: 4 wins for United, 1 draw
Expect a competitive match, but history favors the home team.
Venue & Weather Conditions
Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester
Weather: Overcast skies, 4°C, light wind (6 m/s)
Cold conditions could impact muscle endurance, but the absence of rain ensures a quality playing surface.
Final Thoughts
This FA Cup clash at Old Trafford promises excitement, with Manchester United favored but vulnerable due to defensive injuries. Leicester, under van Nistelrooy, could exploit these gaps. Expect a high-scoring, competitive match, with United’s experience giving them the edge.
Predicted Score: Manchester United 3-1 Leicester City
Best Bet: Both teams to score (1.68)
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