A Titanic Battle Awaits

Chl vrs Man U

Over the years, Manchester United and Chelsea Football Club have given us some exciting moments in Wembley. The rivalry between the two clubs from the days of Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho has remained one of the most interesting rivalries in club football. So, Sunday hopefully will not fall short of expectations.

Looking at the history of the two clubs in the FA Cup against each other, it could be said that history is on the side of the London Club. Chelsea has won four of their last five FA Cup ties against Manchester United, losing the most recent encounter last season. 

If we are to go with that,it can be said that history favours the Blues. But aside history,there are lots of other things that must be put into consideration in predicting which of the power houses of English football comes out tops.

Manchester United has been in a resurgence this season following the arrivals of Bruno Fernandez and Odion Ighalo. The two arrivals revived the disorganized Manchester United Midfield and brought about a new drive in the once lackadaisical and lacklustre attack led by Marshal and Rashford. 

It has been a near smooth ride for the reds especially after returning from the coronavirus pandemic break and that has paid off with a 5th place in premier league table. If not for a recent slip, they would be in the top four by now.

Chelsea on their part has been on a rollercoaster ride of recent which has placed their top four position under threat but they have managed to keep getting lucky. It has not been a good day at the Blues backline for a long time now, they have not been able to stay strong but the young team looks exciting and definitely will get their boots shooting again sooner than expected.

On individual performances, Chelsea and Manchester United have both seen some exciting moments of individual brilliance from the ravaging Fernandez who's ability to create chances and link up play is unrivaled, an indefatigable Ighalo who got the ball rolling as soon as he joined the reds. This has made him the highest goal scorer for Manchester United in the FA Cup this season with three goals despite very slim playing time.

Christian Pulisic returned a great player after the break and has slided into Eden Hazards' role with ease. His sleek movement with the ball, defense splitting passes and goal scoring prowess makes him a threat anytime he is found in the pitch.

Ngolo Kanye and  Olivier Giroud can be over-looked in the middle of the park and the eighteen yard box at the peril of the opposition. Paul Pogba on his day can win a game single handedly, this is not to forget the intelligence of Juan Mata.

Ole vrs Frank

If Chelsea would be able to put their house in order,they have a chance of handing Frank Lampard his first trophy as a Coach on Sunday in Wembley, but if the Ole Gunnar Solskjaers' side comes to the game with their boots, then we are sure to have one of the fiercest meetings in the FA Cup history with the two young Managers seeking their first trophys' as Coaches.

Fingers crossed.