Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the FA Cup match.
Both teams currently sit side by side in the Championship table, occupying 18th and 19th places, respectively. Now, they have the opportunity to settle the score in the world’s oldest football competition as they face off in the fourth round of the FA Cup.
Stoke City
Stoke City have been progressing through the Championship at a steady but unspectacular pace, with just one win, three draws, and one loss in their last five league games. Their most recent victory came last weekend, when they secured an away win over Hull, another relegation-threatened side. In the third round of the FA Cup, Stoke pulled off a surprise victory over Sunderland (2:1), a team sitting fourth in the Championship. However, Sunderland seem to be something of a favourite opponent for Stoke, having also lost to them 1:0 in the Championship.
Cardiff City
Cardiff City have slowly closed the gap on Stoke, but they have spent most of the season hovering dangerously close to the relegation zone. Their recent form shows two wins, two draws, and one defeat in their last five matches. However, that one loss has overshadowed everything else—a 7:0 humiliation at the hands of league leaders Leeds United last weekend. To make matters worse, Cardiff’s away record is abysmal, with just one win in 15 away matches this season.
Stoke City vs Cardiff City Prediction
After suffering such a heavy defeat, Cardiff City will likely struggle to recover quickly, especially away from home. Stoke City, meanwhile, are a solid side on their own turf and should be able to capitalise on Cardiff’s recent struggles. While Stoke are the better pick to win outright, we will play it safe with a neutral handicap to cover a possible draw.
