As the FA Cup quarter-finals unfold, Preston North End is set to host Aston Villa at Deepdale on Sunday, March 30, 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 1:30 PM. This match marks a significant moment for Preston, the only Championship side left in the competition, as they aim to reach their first semi-final since 1964.
Preston, managed by Paul Heckingbottom, comes into this match with a sense of momentum. Unbeaten in their last 15 matches at home, their last loss at Deepdale was on November 2, 2024. This impressive run includes victories in the FA Cup over teams like Charlton, Wycombe, and Burnley. With only three defeats in their last 16 games overall, they are determined to make a mark in the FA Cup, especially since their hopes for a late play-off charge in the Championship appear slim.
Aston Villa, on the other hand, is in a different position. Currently vying for a top-four finish in the Premier League, they are just four points away from that coveted spot. Moreover, they have a looming Champions League quarter-final tie against Paris Saint-Germain, which adds an extra layer of complexity to their FA Cup ambitions. Despite their higher league status, Villa has struggled on the road lately, winning only four of their last 14 away matches across all competitions and losing nine.
Heckingbottom has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete, stating, "We know how to keep things competitive, and with a late play-off charge seeming unlikely in the Championship, all our eggs appear to be firmly in the FA Cup basket." This sentiment is echoed by the statistics, as seven of Preston's last ten matches have featured no more than two goals.
In terms of squad news, Preston will be without their first-choice right-back Kaine Kesler-Hayden, who is ineligible to play against his parent club due to FA regulations. Heckingbottom explained the situation, saying, "It's an FA rule; not Villa being awkward and not allowing him to play." Kesler-Hayden has been a valuable asset for Preston, making 36 appearances this season and contributing three assists.
On the Villa side, manager Unai Emery faces some injury concerns. Ollie Watkins is a new doubt after sustaining a knee injury during the international break, while Ross Barkley is also likely to miss out. However, Emery has a strong squad to choose from and is expected to field a competitive lineup.
As the match approaches, betting expert Luke Seychell has provided some insights into potential outcomes. He suggests a double chance for Preston or a draw at odds of 13/8, indicating that the home side could at least take the game to extra time. Additionally, he predicts under 2.5 goals at odds of 11/10, highlighting Preston's defensive solidity, having conceded just 15 goals in 19 league games at Deepdale this season.
The match is anticipated to be a tactical battle, with Preston likely to adopt a 3-5-2 formation that emphasizes defensive organization. This approach has proven effective for them, as they have received the most yellow cards in the Championship this season and are known for their physical style of play. Seychell also highlights the likelihood of Preston receiving over four cards during the match, with midfielder Ben Whiteman standing out as a potential candidate to be booked.
Fans are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting encounter, with Preston's rich history in the FA Cup adding to the narrative. The club has won the prestigious trophy twice and has finished as runners-up five times, the last being in 1965. A victory today would not only secure a place in the semi-finals but also reignite the club's storied past in this competition.
For Villa, the FA Cup represents a significant opportunity to end a 29-year wait for silverware. They are considered one of the favorites to advance, but they must remain cautious of the unpredictable nature of cup competitions. As Chris Sutton notes, "If they go behind, they could have problems, but I do feel their quality should see them through." Sutton predicts a 2-0 victory for Villa, emphasizing the importance of a strong start.
The match will be broadcast live on BBC One, with coverage starting at 1:15 PM. Fans can also stream the game online via BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website. For those preferring radio coverage, BBC Radio 5 Live and talkSPORT will provide live commentary.
As the teams prepare to take the field, the atmosphere at Deepdale is expected to be electric. Preston fans will be hoping their side can pull off a cup upset against a formidable Villa team, while Villa supporters will be eager to see their side progress towards a potential FA Cup final appearance.
With history on the line for Preston and aspirations for silverware for Villa, this FA Cup quarter-final is set to be a captivating clash. Both teams understand the stakes, and the excitement is palpable as they aim for a place in the semi-finals at Wembley.
