FA Cup Showdown: Manchester City vs Liverpool Preview

FA Cup Showdown: Manchester City vs Liverpool Preview

This Saturday, legendary rivals Manchester City and Liverpool meet at the Etihad Stadium, igniting the fierce competition in the FA Cup quarter-finals.

Date: Saturday, 4 April 2026
Kick-off: 12:45 BST
Venue: Etihad Stadium
Referee: Michael Oliver
VAR: Paul Howard

City comes into the match with considerable momentum after recently clinching the Carabao Cup against Arsenal and recording two Premier League victories over the Reds this season. They currently maintain a daunting home record, with a staggering 17 consecutive FA Cup wins at the Etihad. A win this weekend would see them break a historic record that has stood since 1881.

“The Citizens have not lost an FA Cup match outside of semi-finals and finals since 2018. With 19 wins in their last 21 matches across this competition, it's clear they are in formidable form.”

Conversely, Liverpool is arriving in Manchester aiming to reverse their fortunes. Following a disappointing loss to Brighton, the FA Cup emerges as their best chance for silverware this season. Historically, they have excel in this competition, having progressed from 17 of their last 19 quarter-final appearances. What's more, they've won each of their last four FA Cup encounters against City. This match also marks a significant moment, being the first since Mohamed Salah's departure was confirmed, adding an emotional layer to an already thrilling clash.

Recent Form & Team Updates

Manchester City

Pep Guardiola has announced James Trafford will start as goalkeeper. The inclusion of Marc Guehi boosts the defensive line, although doubts remain over Ruben Dias and John Stones. Star striker Erling Haaland is on track to score in his fourth consecutive home game against Liverpool, highlighting the pressure on him to deliver in a crunch moment.

Liverpool

In a promising development, both Mohamed Salah and Jeremie Frimpong are fit to play, whilst Alexander Isak's return from injury adds depth, despite him likely starting on the bench. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker will miss out, giving Giorgi Mamardashvili yet another chance to prove his worth. Curtis Jones is on the brink of making more history, potentially being the first player since 1996 to score in three consecutive FA Cup rounds.

• Manchester City Predicted XI (4-3-3): Trafford; Nunes, Khusanov, Guehi, Ait-Nouri; Bernardo, Rodri, O'Reilly; Semenyo, Haaland, Cherki
• Liverpool Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Mamardashvili; Szoboszlai, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike

How to Watch

The clash will be televised live in the UK on TNT Sports 1, with coverage beginning at 11:30 BST, ensuring fans won't miss any moment of the action.

This match promises not just a battle for progression in the cup, but also a clash of philosophies as tactical titans Guardiola and Slot go head-to-head. Can City continue their dominant run or will Liverpool's resilience shine through? Be sure to catch all the action as these giants of English football collide.