Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa

Oliver Glasner's team might approach the Wembley match with a concerning four-game winless streak, but their spirited performance in a 2-2 draw against Arsenal and resilient 10-man defense in a 0-0 draw with Bournemouth, a European underdog, showcased their determination.

Eberechi Eze’s stunning volley and Jean-Philippe Mateta’s equally impressive goal against Arsenal highlight Crystal Palace’s scoring prowess, with multiple goals in eight of their last 10 away games from Selhurst Park. Glasner, the 2021-22 Europa League champion, is well-versed in navigating knockout competitions.

Meanwhile, Unai Emery, Glasner’s counterpart, is renowned for his trophy-winning pedigree from his tenures in Spain and France. The four-time Europa League winner is now chasing his first English trophy to enhance his illustrious resume.

Although Emery’s former club, Paris Saint-Germain, ensured Aston Villa won’t compete for the Champions League next season, the Lions have overcome Preston North End, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, and Cardiff City to reach their first FA Cup semi-final in 10 years.

However, their 2015 semi-final victory over Liverpool led to a 4-0 thrashing by Arsenal in the final. With seven FA Cups already in their history, Aston Villa are eager for an eighth, their last win in the competition dating back to 1957.

The euphoria of crushing Newcastle United 4-1 last weekend quickly gave way to despair as Aston Villa suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Manchester City in midweek, with a stoppage-time winner leaving them two points outside the Champions League spots.

For Crystal Palace, the FA Cup represents their last shot at silverware this season, but with the campaign reaching its climax, they can’t afford to shift focus entirely from the league. Their impressive 17-game scoring streak in all competitions, however, is keeping their hopes alive on both fronts.

Revenge will also be a key motivator for Unai Emery’s side. Earlier this season, Crystal Palace knocked them out of the EFL Cup, and just two months ago, they were humbled 4-1 at Selhurst Park. These painful memories add even more intensity to what promises to be a thrilling clash at Wembley.