We’re down to the final eight in the 2024/25 FA Cup – and a fascinating mix of clubs remain. Manchester City, last year’s beaten finalists, are favourites, but they’re the only side left to have won the competition in the last 65 years.
The rest? A blend of English Premier League hopefuls, historic nearly-men, and one EFL Championship underdog. Here’s a detailed look at each tie – and what lies ahead as these teams dream of Wembley.
Fulham vs Crystal Palace (Saturday 29 March, 13:15)
A London derby kicks things off at Craven Cottage — and it’s a huge opportunity for both clubs. Neither Fulham nor Palace have ever lifted the FA Cup, but both have shown signs of something special this season.
Fulham arrive full of confidence after knocking out Manchester United on penalties in the previous round, and they also beat Spurs in the league before the international break. But Crystal Palace have found a rhythm under Oliver Glasner — their win over Millwall and a crucial league victory at Craven Cottage in February (2-0) will give them belief they can do it again.
This one feels evenly matched. Palace’s pace on the counter is a real weapon, while Fulham’s control and quality in possession makes them dangerous at home. One thing is certain – London will have a representative in the final four.
Fulham visiting Crystal Palace today is the best reason to bring out Pajtim Kasami scoring one of the all-time great EPL goals! ? pic.twitter.com/kZqTl682C1
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Brighton vs Nottingham Forest (Saturday 29 March, 18:15)
If Fulham vs Palace is the most balanced, Brighton vs Forest might be the most explosive.
These sides have already played two wild matches this season – a 2-2 draw at the Amex and that 7-0 demolition by Forest at the City Ground in February, Brighton’s heaviest-ever Premier League defeat. You can bet revenge will be on Fabian Hürzeler’s mind.
Brighton are unbeaten in seven and pushing hard for European qualification. Forest have found a new level under Nuno Espírito Santo, with Morgan Gibbs-White and Chris Wood in great form, though the New Zealander is a doubt after picking up a hip injury on international duty. Forest haven’t won major silverware since the 1990 League Cup – and though the fight for top four is the priority, this could be their best shot.
This is Brighton’s third quarter-final in five seasons, and they’ll be desperate to finally break through.
Chris Wood scores a hat-trick as Nottingham Forest DESTROY Brighton at the City Ground! ? pic.twitter.com/s6lFykxQdj
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Preston North End vs Aston Villa (Sunday 30 March, 14:30)
Preston are the only non-Premier League club left, and that makes them instant fan favourites. But they’re not just here for romance. Paul Heckingbottom has stabilised the side in the Championship and knocked out rivals Burnley 3-0 in the last round.
That said, this is a different level. Aston Villa have already seen off West Ham, Spurs and Cardiff and are the second-favourites to lift the trophy. With a Champions League quarter-final on the horizon, Unai Emery could rotate, but Villa’s depth means they can still go full strength if they want to.
It’s been 68 years since Villa last won the FA Cup. This season, they’re fighting on multiple fronts and look hungry. But a raucous Deepdale and the pressure of expectation could make this a proper banana skin.
Bournemouth vs Manchester City (Sunday 30 March, 17:30)
This is City’s competition to lose – but don’t write off Bournemouth. The Cherries beat City 2-1 in November and will feel confident they can do it again at the Vitality.
City have looked vulnerable. Already out of the Champions League and slipping in the league, Pep Guardiola knows this is now his only chance at silverware this season. They’ve had a kind run so far in the cup, but Bournemouth are no pushovers.
Andoni Iraola’s men haven’t been in great form since February, but the cup could be the reset they need. It’s just their third quarter-final appearance ever — and history beckons if they can reach the last four.
Bournemouth have now beaten Man City AND Arsenal at home in the EPL this season! ? pic.twitter.com/7B76heZeuB
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Bet9ja Outright Odds
As the FA Cup progressed ever-closer to the final at the iconic Wembley Stadium, the outright odds have changed to reflect the current standings and form of the teams still in the competition.
According to Bet9ja’s outright odds, Manchester City are favourites to lift the trophy with 3.00, while Aston Villa are a close second with odds of 5.00.
Brighton (6.00), Fulham (7.50) and Bournemouth (9.00) make up the following three favourites, while the odds suggest that Crystal Palace (11.00), Nottingham Forest (13.00) and Preston (81.00) are all unlikely victors.
However, as the FA Cup has shown time and time again throughout its illustrious history, the magic of the cup can mean any outcome is possible.
Bet on outright FA Cup winner odds here.
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