In-depth Analysis
Newcastle ended their three-game home losing streak in the Premier League with an important 2-1 victory over Manchester United on Wednesday night, despite playing the entire second half with only 10 men on the field. Currently 12th in the table and 9 points behind the top-six group with just 9 matches remaining, Eddie Howe’s side still has plenty to do to keep their hopes alive for a European spot next season, while also aiming for deep runs in the Champions League and FA Cup.
Last season’s EFL Cup winners failed to defend their title after losing 5-1 on aggregate to Manchester City in the semifinals earlier this year, and then fell 1-2 at the Etihad in their most recent Premier League meeting. Therefore, following their midweek win over United, Newcastle are determined to continue making Man City pay.
In contrast, Manchester City dropped points in the Premier League when held to a draw by Nottingham Forest at home on Wednesday. Only taking 1 point leaves them 7 points behind Arsenal in the title race, despite having one game in hand.
Ahead of their challenging away tie against Real Madrid in the Champions League Round of 16 next week, City will meet Newcastle for the 11th time in the FA Cup. Based on history and squad quality, Manchester City clearly hold the advantage, winning 18 of their last 20 FA Cup matches over the past four seasons, losing only in the 2024 and 2025 finals, and are well positioned to progress further.