Fulham vs Watford FA Cup Preview

• Fulham to win
• Over 2.5 goals

The 2024/25 FA Cup resumes with an intriguing clash between Fulham and Watford at Craven Cottage. Fulham, a Premier League side under Marco Silva, will look to advance against Championship strugglers Watford, who have been faltering in recent weeks.

Fulham: Stability Amid a Mixed Run

Marco Silva continues to mould Fulham into a resilient Premier League outfit, with the team earning notable results against Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea despite a mixed run of form.

While they’ve failed to win six of their last eight matches, their last defeat came back in November, showcasing their ability to hold their own against top-tier opposition.

Fulham’s FA Cup record is strong, progressing from 13 of their last 16 third-round ties, including their last five consecutive matches at this stage. Facing a Championship side at home provides an excellent opportunity for the Cottagers to maintain that streak.

The Cottagers will likely rely on the creative spark of Andreas Pereira and the attacking prowess of Rodrigo Muniz. Pereira, amidst speculation of a move back to Brazil, will look to make a significant impact, while Muniz aims to cement his role in Fulham’s forward line.

Watford: Struggling for Momentum

Watford arrive at Craven Cottage under immense pressure after three successive defeats in the Championship, which have dropped them out of the playoff spots.

Manager Tom Cleverley will hope the FA Cup provides a respite from their league woes, but the Hornets’ recent form and poor away record suggest a tough evening ahead.

Watford’s struggles on the road have been stark, with eight losses from 12 league matches this season. However, their FA Cup pedigree includes a history of pushing Fulham to replays in their previous three meetings in this competition.

Cleverley will likely rotate his squad, balancing the need for fresh legs with the desire to progress in the cup.

Key Stats

• Fulham have progressed from 13 of their last 16 third-round FA Cup ties, including their last four against lower-division teams.
• Watford have progressed from just one of their last five FA Cup third-round matches.
• Fulham have failed to win their last six competitive matches against Watford (D3, L3), conceding 14 goals in the process.
• Watford have lost eight of their 12 Championship away games this season.

Players to Watch

Andreas Pereira (Fulham)

Fulham’s creative heartbeat, Pereira, will be tasked with orchestrating the midfield and supplying chances for the front line. With transfer speculation swirling, he’ll be eager to leave a lasting impression in this clash.

Vakoun Issouf Bayo (Watford)

Bayo’s physical presence and ability to lead the line will be vital for Watford, especially as they look to exploit Fulham’s occasional defensive vulnerabilities on the counter.

Prediction

Watford’s dismal away record and recent poor form make Fulham favourites to progress. While the Hornets might put up a spirited fight, the quality and home advantage of Silva’s side should prove too much.

Expect Fulham’s attacking trio of Iwobi, Smith Rowe and Muniz to shine, with Pereira pulling the strings.

Prediction: Fulham 3-1 Watford