Manchester City's hopes of a Champions League double-treble got dashed after they were beaten by Real Madrid. Despite putting up a fight in both legs, they couldn't make it past the quarter-finals. Now, they're focusing on the FA Cup and Premier League titles.
City's recent draw with Real Madrid means they've matched some impressive unbeaten records. But there's no time to dwell on that, as they're gearing up for another tough match against Chelsea. Interestingly, City have lost three out of their last five FA Cup semi-finals, including one against Chelsea in 2021. However, they've been on a winning streak against Chelsea lately.
Chelsea, on the other hand, are coming into this game with high spirits after a huge 6-0 win against Everton. They've been performing well in the Premier League and are now eyeing European football for next season. But they've got a tough road ahead, with some challenging fixtures against London rivals.
As for their FA Cup journey, Chelsea have had to battle through some tough opponents. Now, they're ready for their 27th semi-final, aiming to secure a spot in the final. But history shows they've struggled against Man City in the FA Cup recently, so they'll be eager to turn the tide this time around.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Guardiola, the Man City manager, is crossing his fingers for a fully fit squad, but some key players like De Bruyne, Haaland, and Akanji are being monitored closely. They all requested to be substituted before the penalty shootout due to fitness concerns.Kyle Walker's condition is also under scrutiny after playing the entire 120 minutes in his first start since recovering from a hamstring injury. John Stones and Nathan Ake, who recently returned from injuries, are also in the mix for potential involvement this weekend.
There's a possibility that Stefan Ortega could step in for Ederson in goal, while Kovacic and Julian Alvarez are eager to secure spots in the starting lineup, especially considering their history with Chelsea.
On the Chelsea side, several players including James, Nkunku, Ugochukwu, Fofana, and Lavia are sidelined due to various injuries. Casadei won't be available either due to cup-tie rules.
Sterling, Sanchez, Disasi, and Fernandez missed the last game due to illness or unspecified issues and will be assessed before kickoff. Colwill's absence in recent games is attributed to a toe problem.
It's expected that Palmer will start against his former team, but his position might vary depending on Fernandez's fitness. If Fernandez is fit, he's likely to join Caicedo in midfield, allowing Gallagher to play further up the field.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Manchester City possible starting lineup:Ortega; Walker, Stones, Dias, Ake; Rodri; Foden, De Bruyne, Alvarez, Doku; Haaland
Chelsea possible starting lineup:
Petrovic; Gusto, Chalobah, Silva, Chilwell; Caicedo, Fernandez; Palmer, Gallagher, Sterling; Jackson
EXPERT PREDICTION
Manchester City 2-1 Chelsea
However, Guardiola and his team are expected to respond strongly, eager to avoid being knocked out of two competitions within just four days. If City have all their key players available, they should have the edge and secure their place in the final.
