A 3-1 outcome allows for City’s expected dominance while acknowledging Salford’s scoring history against larger clubs. City average over two goals per match, while Salford average 2.67 in the competition. Expect Salford to registers on the scoresheet during a counter-attack.

Southampton average 14.3 shots per game, but tend to leave space behind when committing bodies forward. While Leicester possess a supply line via Abdul Fatawu, their tendency to concede 1.56 goals per match makes it unlikely they can hold out for a result.

Newcastle average 1.63 goals per game but their defensive backline is currently easily breached. Villa have scored six goals in their last two home wins against the Magpies, making a 2-1 scoreline statistically the most likely landscape for this cup fixture.

Liverpool score at a rate of 1.81 goals per match at Anfield. While Brighton’s passing rhythm guarantees chances against a Reds defense that has conceded 48 times this term, their current rut suggests they lack the stamina to prevent a narrow 2-1 defeat.

Stoke have failed to score in five of their last seven outings, and one or both teams have failed to score in 18 of their last 22 match-ups. Fulham possess far superior scoring potency and should get back on track with a comfortable win at the bet365 Stadium.

Wigan have slipped into the relegation zone after taking just two points from their first eight games in 2026. After losing to nil against several lower-tier sides recently, it is hard to see them landing a blow on Arsenal’s defence in a heavy home win.