Red Devils Take on the Reds: United Aim to Spoil Liverpool's Quadruple Dream at Old Trafford
The FA Cup quarterfinals heat up this Sunday as Manchester United lock horns with Liverpool in a clash steeped in history and rivalry. Old Trafford will be a cauldron of noise as Erik ten Hag's men aim to derail Liverpool's quest for an unprecedented quadruple.
United Seek Redemption and a Rejuvenating Upset
Manchester United come into the match with a point to prove. Their recent Premier League struggles have seen them fall off the top-four race, leaving the FA Cup as their only realistic chance of silverware this season. The return of Marcus Rashford from injury provides a much-needed boost to their attacking options, with the England international likely to partner Anthony Martial upfront. Ten Hag will be looking to exploit Liverpool's high defensive line with the pace of Jadon Sancho on the right flank.
Liverpool Aim to Maintain Momentum on All Fronts
Liverpool, on the other hand, are in imperious form. Sitting top of the Premier League, still in the Champions League and Carabao Cup, Jurgen Klopp's men are dreaming of an historic quadruple. However, their relentless schedule could be a factor, and rotation will be key. Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz are sure to start, but questions remain over the involvement of Virgil van Dijk, who is nursing a minor knock. The creativity of Thiago Alcantara and the defensive solidity of Fabinho will be crucial in midfield.
Head-to-Head: A Close Encounter Expected
The last five meetings between these two giants have been incredibly tight, with three draws and a win apiece. The most recent encounter, a 0-0 stalemate at Anfield in the Premier League, was a cagey affair, highlighting the tactical battle between the two managers.
Confirmed Lineups:
Manchester United (4-2-3-1): De Gea; Dalot, Varane, Maguire, Shaw; Fred, McTominay; Sancho, Fernandes, Elanga; Martial.
Liverpool (4-3-3): Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Matip, Robertson; Thiago, Fabinho, Elliott; Salah, Jota, Diaz.
A Night of Passion and Intrigue Awaits
This promises to be a captivating clash between two of English football's most iconic sides. United will be buoyed by the home advantage and their desire to topple a giant. Liverpool, however, possess the quality and experience to navigate this tie. Expect a fiercely contested battle with a potentially dramatic finish, with a place in the FA Cup semi-finals at stake.