Sabasports Match Preview
FA Cup: Fulham vs Newcastle United
Kickoff Time: 2024-01-28 03:00 (HKT)
Source:REUTERS/ SCOTT HEPPELL
This is the fourth round of the FA Cup, if the two teams are tied at
the end of the regular 90 minutes of play, a rematch will be necessary to
determine the winner.
During the mid-week, Fulham had an EFL Cup assignment against
Liverpool at home. However, they were unable to defeat Liverpool and were
eventually eliminated from the competition. This loss had a negative impact on
the players’ morale, and their physical fitness may have been affected as well.
Additionally, Fulham are currently dealing with the absence of forward Alex
Iwobi and center back Calvin Bassey, who are both representing Nigeria in the
African Cup of Nations. Both Iwobi and Bassey are key players for Fulham, and
their absence has weakened the team’s offensive and defensive capabilities.
Despite these challenges, Fulham have shown decent performances in their recent
matches. They have caused difficulties for strong teams like Liverpool and
Chelsea, utilizing the flexibility of the 4-2-3-1 formation. From a tactical
perspective, Fulham focus on establishing a strong presence in the midfield,
aiming to gain a numerical advantage and execute successful steals. They then
distribute the ball to the wings and rely on quick counterattacks to pose
threats to their opponents.
Newcastle United have not been significantly affected by players being
called up to the national team. Currently, they have three main players on the
injury list: goalkeeper Nick Pope, center forward Callum Wilson, and midfielder
Joelinton. Their league performance has declined due to the demands of European
competitions, with only one win and six losses in the past seven rounds. They
are currently 19 points behind the league leader, Liverpool, making it highly
unlikely for them to contend for the league title. As a result, their focus
will likely shift to cup competitions. Two weeks ago, Newcastle released their
financial report for the 2022-23 season, which revealed a loss of £70 million.
Advancing in the FA Cup would provide some financial relief, as the winners of
the fourth round receive a minimum bonus of £120,000. The club’s top management
places great importance on the FA Cup, and if they are eliminated, there may be
concerns about coach Eddie Howe’s future. Fortunately for Newcastle, they have
an advantage in the upcoming match. In their previous encounter with Fulham, Newcastle
dominated the game with around 70% ball possession, a shot ratio of 27:6, and a
display of superior offensive and defensive strength.
Fulham’s tactical approach enables them to take advantage when facing
teams that emphasize offensive football. They have the ability to exploit
situations where the opponent’s formation presses too far by utilizing quick
counterattacks to create scoring opportunities. However, if the opposing team
possesses a strong midfield interception ability, it can effectively slow down
Fulham’s fast break speed and force them into a positional battle. This makes
it challenging for Fulham to find scoring opportunities. In the upcoming match
against Newcastle, Newcastle’s midfield interception ability is considered
strong. Given the differing tactical styles between the two teams, there is
optimism that Newcastle can secure a comfortable victory and advance in the
competition.
Fulham’s Last 5 Games: DLLWW
24-01-25 Fulham 1-1 Liverpool
24-01-13 Chelsea 1-0 Fulham
24-01-11 Liverpool 2-1 Fulham
24-01-06 Fulham 1-0 Rotherham United
23-12-31 Fulham 2-1 Arsenal
Newcastle United’s Last 5 Games: LWLLL
24-01-14 Newcastle United 2-3 Manchester City
24-01-06 Sunderland 0-3 Newcastle United
24-01-02 Liverpool 4-2 Newcastle United
23-12-26 Newcastle United 1-3 Nottingham Forest
23-12-23 Luton Town 1-0 Newcastle United
Head To Head Record:
23-12-16 Newcastle United 3-0 Fulham
23-01-15 Newcastle United 1-0 Fulham
22-10-01 Fulahm 1-4 Newcastle United
21-05-23 Fulham 0-2 Newcastle United
20-12-20 Newcastle United 1-1 Fulham
Prediction: Newcastle United to
win