Manchester United’s setback against Crystal Palace should be short-lived, as they face a struggling Leicester side. With superior quality, they are expected to bounce back and secure victory in Friday’s FA Cup clash. With so many betting opportunities around this match, our experts have prepared a huge 86/1 Bet Builder tip, in addition to our detailed match preview on this clash.
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Manchester United to Win & Over 2.5 Goals
Manchester United’s form in the league has been disappointing, but the FA Cup has provided a welcome reprieve. They have gone 18 home games in this competition without losing in regular time, securing victory in 16 of those. This ability to rise to the occasion suggests they will once again find their rhythm at Old Trafford.
Leicester, on the other hand, have been vulnerable at the back, shipping four goals in their last outing against Everton. Their defensive struggles are not a one-off—keeping clean sheets has been a persistent issue, even against lesser opposition. A pattern has emerged in their recent losses, with their last three defeats all ending without them finding the net.
Ruud van Nistelrooy may look to shake things up after that disappointing display, possibly opting for a more attacking setup featuring Facundo Buonanotte and Stephy Mavididi. While this could give them more of a cutting edge going forward, it will also increase their defensive frailties—something United’s forwards will be eager to exploit.
With Rasmus Højlund, Bruno Fernandes, and Amad Diallo likely leading the charge, United should have more than enough quality to break through Leicester’s porous defence. Despite the absence of Marcus Rashford, the Red Devils have attacking options, and the energy of Patrick Dorgu on the left could provide additional width. Furthermore, goalkeeper Altay Bayindir is expected to start, fresh from a match-winning performance against Arsenal in the previous round.
Given Leicester’s habit of starting games poorly and United’s strength in this competition, a high-scoring home victory looks like a strong possibility.
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Draw at Half-Time
Since Ruben Amorim took charge at Manchester United, his tenure has been a mix of tactical promise and inconsistency. His initial games were hampered by limited time on the training pitch, leading to disjointed performances. As the weeks passed, issues of attitude and motivation came to the fore, with United often struggling to assert themselves early in matches.
Leicester’s own difficulties have been well documented, but one trend has remained consistent—they have often made slow starts, growing into matches as they progress. Given both teams’ tendencies to lack early urgency, this fixture could be cagey in the opening 45 minutes.
United’s home form has been unpredictable. While they have found ways to beat struggling teams, their victories over the likes of Southampton, Rangers, and Steaua Bucharest have not been straightforward. In some of these matches, it has taken late goals to get the job done, highlighting a lack of control in earlier phases of play.
Leicester’s defensive shape is likely to be more compact in the first half as they attempt to avoid another early collapse like the one at Everton. If Van Nistelrooy sets his side up to frustrate United initially, it could lead to a first half with limited clear-cut chances.
This makes the draw at half-time a strong possibility, before United eventually assert themselves later in the game.
Back Our Manchester United vs Leicester City Ultimate Bet Builder Tip Here
West Ham vs Leicester Bet Builder Tip @ 95/1 | |
Reasoning West Ham’s superior form, Leicester’s defensive struggles, and Bowen’s goal threat make this a strong bet. Soucek and Álvarez’s aggressive styles increase booking potential, adding value to this Bet Builder selection. | |
Harry Maguire to be Shown a Card
Discipline has been a recurring issue for Harry Maguire this season. In 16 starts for United, he has been cautioned seven times—a worrying rate for a central defender. Notably, four of those bookings have come in his last five starts, suggesting that his challenges have become increasingly reckless.
Facing Leicester, Maguire will likely be tasked with managing counter-attacks and physical battles with their attacking players. If Van Nistelrooy selects Stephy Mavididi or Kelechi Iheanacho, their pace could pose problems for the United defender, forcing him into situations where he may need to make desperate challenges.
With Leicester’s strategy likely to involve hitting United on the break, Maguire will need to be alert. However, his recent history suggests he struggles when defending against quick transitions, making him a prime candidate for a yellow card. Referees have not hesitated to penalise him this season, and a booking here seems likely.
Boubakary Soumaré to be Shown a Card
Leicester’s midfield will have to work hard to contain Manchester United’s playmakers, and Boubakary Soumaré’s role will be crucial in that battle. However, his aggressive approach has already led to eight yellow cards this season, averaging one every 183 minutes. Given that he will be up against Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo, his chances of picking up another caution are high.
Soumaré’s tendency to dive into tackles is well known, and he has often found himself on the wrong side of referees. Against a United side who enjoy possession in midfield, he will likely be forced into several challenges that could catch the official’s attention.
Additionally, Amorim’s side will look to play with a high tempo, drawing fouls in central areas. Soumaré’s physicality is an asset, but it also makes him a prime candidate for a yellow card. If Leicester spend long periods of the game chasing the ball, frustration could set in, increasing the likelihood of another booking for the Frenchman.ed with the likelihood of Tottenham pushing forward on the counter, makes Mac Allister a prime candidate for a yellow card.
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