Bournemouth vs Manchester City FA Cup Preview

• City to qualify
• Over 2.5 goals

Bournemouth’s dream season rolls on as they prepare for a massive FA Cup quarter-final clash with Manchester City at the Vitality Stadium.

With European football in sight through the Premier League and now a historic cup run within reach, the next two months could define the Cherries’ campaign.

City, however, are serial FA Cup semi-finalists, having reached that stage in each of the last six seasons—a competition record—and they’re determined to take another step towards silverware after losing the final last season to Manchester United.

Can Bournemouth shock City once again at home, or will Pep Guardiola’s side continue their relentless FA Cup dominance on the road? Here’s your full quarter-final preview.

Bournemouth’s Big Opportunity on Home Soil

This marks just the third time Bournemouth have reached the FA Cup quarter-finals in their history (1956/57 and 2020/21). Andoni Iraola’s men will hope to break new ground after losing at this stage in both previous attempts—to Manchester United and Southampton respectively.

But confidence will be high heading into this tie, especially after their 2-1 home win over City in November, which finally ended a 21-match winless streak against them (D2, L19).

Their cup journey has already seen them knock out Everton and Wolves, both fellow Premier League sides, and this will be their third straight FA Cup fixture at home, where they’ve been solid this season.

Manchester City’s Relentless FA Cup Form

City’s dominance in this competition is well established. They’ve reached the semi-finals six years running, and haven’t lost an FA Cup quarter-final since 2013/14.

Their last road defeat in the competition came over six years ago—they’ve since won 14 consecutive FA Cup away ties, scoring 40 goals along the way.

While Bournemouth’s victory earlier this season may give them hope, City’s pedigree, depth, and cup experience make them clear favourites. Guardiola is expected to field a strong side, with the international break ahead, making rotation less necessary.

Head-to-Head & Key Stats

• Bournemouth FA Cup quarter-final appearances: 3 (incl. this season)
• Bournemouth record in FA Cup QFs: Lost both previous attempts (1957, 2021)
• Last H2H: Bournemouth 2-1 Manchester City (November 2024)
• City’s FA Cup semi-final streak: 6 seasons in a row
• City’s FA Cup away record since 2018: W14, 40 goals scored
• All-time H2H record (last 23 meetings): Man City W19, D2, L2

Despite the recent upset, the long-term record highlights City’s dominance over Bournemouth. However, the Cherries know they can beat them, especially at home.

Key Players to Watch

Evanilson (Bournemouth)

The Brazilian striker is emerging as a key man for Bournemouth, scoring in the fifth round against Wolves and also grabbing the winner in their last clash with Manchester City. His pace and finishing will be vital if Bournemouth are to hurt City on the break.

Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)

De Bruyne is the heartbeat of City’s attack, and his FA Cup record is stellar—13 direct goal contributions in his last 10 matches (G3, A10). He was instrumental in the fifth-round win over Plymouth, and his vision and delivery could unlock Bournemouth’s defence.

Prediction: Can Bournemouth Stun City Again?

Bournemouth will draw belief from their home victory over City earlier this season, and with their form and momentum, they’ll give this everything.

But City are ruthless in the FA Cup, particularly away from home, and their record at this stage and in knockout games is unmatched.

Bournemouth may keep it competitive, especially early on, but City’s experience and attacking depth should ultimately shine through.

Predicted Score: Bournemouth 1-3 Manchester City

City reach yet another FA Cup semi-final, while Bournemouth bow out with pride, having pushed the defending champions in an increasingly memorable season.