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Both teams reached this stage with dramatic quarter-final victories. Coventry stunned Wolverhampton Wanderers with late heroics, while Manchester United ended Liverpool's quadruple hopes in extra time, although Mark Robins' exuberance towards a Molineux ball boy raised some eyebrows.
Coventry's journey to Wembley was marked by Ellis Simms and Haji Wright's late heroics, securing a spot in just their second FA Cup semi-final. However, their recent form in the Championship has been shaky, with three defeats in their last four matches, including a worrying loss to Birmingham City.
Despite their uphill battle for a playoff spot in the Championship, FA Cup glory would be a significant achievement for Coventry. But standing in their way are the formidable Manchester United, who are eyeing their 22nd FA Cup final appearance.
Manchester United's path to the semi-finals included a thrilling encounter with Liverpool, settled in their favor by a late goal from Amad Diallo. While their recent Premier League form has been inconsistent, they are determined to add another domestic trophy to their cabinet under the leadership of Erik ten Hag.
Although form may go out the window at Wembley, Manchester United will be wary of Coventry's potential to cause an upset, recalling their past encounters in knockout competitions. As the two teams prepare to battle it out, both will be fueled by the desire to secure a spot in the FA Cup final.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Amidst Coventry's jubilant celebrations at Molineux, midfielder Kasey Palmer, who had been substituted earlier, received a late yellow card for encroaching onto the field. It was his second yellow of the tournament, meaning he'll miss the trip to Wembley due to suspension.Palmer's absence will be felt by the Sky Blues, given his significant contributions in the FA Cup this season. However, Callum O'Hare has also been impressive in knockout games and is a capable replacement.
Coventry's injury concerns are limited to Jamie Allen and Tatsuhiro Sakamoto. Additionally, manager Mark Robins made tactical changes during their recent match against Birmingham, impacting the chances of Bobby Thomas, Victor Torp, and Jake Bidwell for starting positions at Wembley.
On the Manchester United side, although Amad Diallo has already served his suspension in the Premier League, they're grappling with an injury crisis, especially in defense. Several key players like Anthony Martial, Luke Shaw, Victor Lindelof, and others are ruled out, with teenager Willy Kambwala expected to partner with Harry Maguire.
Scott McTominay and Antony are working towards fitness but may not start, with Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford likely to take their places on the wing.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Coventry City possible starting lineup:Collins; Latibeaudiere, Thomas, Kitching, Dasilva; Sheaf, Eccles; Van Ewijk, O'Hare, Wright; Simms
Manchester United possible starting lineup:
Onana; Dalot, Kambwala, Maguire, Wan-Bissaka; Casemiro, Mainoo; Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford; Hojlund
EXPERT PREDICTION
Coventry 2-3 Manchester United
Despite Manchester United's weakened defense and tendency to concede shots, Coventry may find some confidence in exploiting these vulnerabilities. However, Robins' team is struggling at a critical juncture, and they'll feel the absence of their influential playmaker, Palmer.
While scoring a consolation goal isn't out of reach, considering the number of chances opposition teams create against Manchester United, Coventry's own defense is likely to be under immense pressure. Ultimately, it seems likely that the Red Devils will secure a spot in the final for the second consecutive year.
