In a 2025 FA Cup semifinal on Sunday, a Manchester City team dealing with injuries faces a surprisingly strong Nottingham Forest side. These two teams shared the points in their Premier League encounters this season, with Forest securing a 1-0 victory in their most recent match on March 8. Manchester City, currently third in the EPL standings with a record of 18-7-9, has an impressive recent run of five wins and two draws in their last seven games.
Nottingham Forest (18-6-9), sitting fourth in the league table, heads into this match following a 2-1 triumph over Tottenham Hotspur on Monday. The match is scheduled to kick off at 11:30 a.m. ET at the historic Wembley Stadium in London. Betting markets show Manchester City as the clear favorite, while Nottingham Forest is considered a significant underdog. The line for total goals is set at 2.5.
Let`s look at some potential betting angles:
Predictions for the Match
Under 2.5 Total Goals
This forecast suggests a low-scoring affair. A major factor is Manchester City`s injury list, particularly the absence of their prolific striker Erling Haaland. In his absence, the team`s attack relies more heavily on players like midfielder Phil Foden, who has seven goals and two assists in 25 appearances. Manchester City has scored two or fewer goals in seven of their last eight outings. Similarly, Nottingham Forest has been involved in low-scoring games, finding the net one or fewer times in four of their past five matches.
Double Chance: Draw or Nottingham Forest Win
This pick highlights Nottingham Forest`s significant progress. After battling relegation last season, they now find themselves competing for major honors. Manchester City`s recent form has been somewhat inconsistent, and there`s speculation they might be prioritizing the crucial final stages of the Premier League season over the FA Cup. The expectation is that Nottingham Forest will pose a strong challenge and could potentially avoid defeat against City, demonstrating how far they have come and giving City a run for their money.
