In what promises to be a thrilling contest in the first leg of the FA Cup semi-finals, Chelsea FC take on Manchester United FC. The battle between the two Premier League heavyweights would take place at the Wembley Stadium, which is the neutral venue for FA Cup semi-finals in recent years.
Both sides would be looking forward to getting their hands on the prestigious FA Cup trophy, however, face a difficult tie on 19th July when the two clubs take the pitch for the first of the two-legged semi-finals.
Chelsea FC would visit the Wembley Stadium on the back of a narrow 1-0 victory away at Norwich City. Despite what the scoreline might suggest, Frank Lampard’s side were on top form against the Canaries and would have scored more on any other day.
The Blues’ forwards, especially Christian Pulisic and Olivier Giroud are on a remarkable run of form and would be hoping to continue their goalscoring spree against an in-form Manchester United FC side. However, the Chelsea FC defence has been very shaky recently and would have to be on their extreme best against a ferocious Red Devils attack force.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men have been brilliant in recent times, with the squad having been bolstered by the addition of Portuguese playmaker Bruno Fernandes.
WHEN & WHERE?
Date: Sunday 19th July
Time: 6 PM GMT
Venue: Wembley Stadium
TEAM NEWS
The Blues would be optimistic about the chances of N’Golo Kante being fit for Sunday’s game. The French midfielder has been sidelined for the past three games with a hamstring injury.
Kante’s presence would be crucial for Chelsea FC’s chances of securing a victory against Manchester United FC. The holding midfielder’s experience and ability make him a valuable player for the Blues, who will have to face the likes of Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes come Sunday evening.
With Manchester United FC set to play Crystal Palace in the Premier League before their FA Cup tie, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer would certainly look to rest some key players for his side’s visit to Selhurst Park.
As a result, recent absentees for United such as Brandon Williams and Mason Greenwood should be deemed fit to play against the Blues. Both players have been sidelined over the past few weeks with ankle and facial injuries respectively.
RECENT FORM
Manchester United FC: W W W W D
Chelsea FC: L W W L W
MANCHESTER UNITED FC VS CHELSEA FC PREDICTED LINEUP
Manchester United FC: De Gea; Wan-Bissaka, Maguire, Lindelof, Luke Shaw; Nemanja Matic, Pogba, Bruno Fernandes; Mason Greenwood, Rashford, Martial.
Chelsea FC: Kepa; Cesar Azpilicueta, Rudiger, Kurt Zouma, Alonso; Ross Barkley, Billy Gilmour, Mason Mount; Willian, Olivier Giroud, Christian Pulisic.
