This is How Man United Can Beat Man City and Win the FA Cup!

How Man United Can Beat Man City and Win the FA Cup

Manchester United hasn't been very competitive against Manchester City this season. How might they change that in this Saturday's FA Cup final? Here are some ideas!

Manchester City: Likely to Beat Manchester United

For the FA Cup final (Saturday, 9 a.m. ET on ESPN+), Man City is a minus-700 favorite to win the tournament for the second year in a row, per ESPN Bet. You'd have to bet $700 on City just to win $100. When you consider Man United's odds (plus-300) and remove the vig (the sportsbook's fee), it comes out to an 83% chance that City wins and a 17% chance that United pulls an upset.

Financial Disparity

Despite similar financial strength (City's €826 million revenue vs. United's €746 million), the FA Cup final is a true David-vs.-Goliath situation on the field.

The Unlikelihood of a Man United Win

It's very unlikely that Man United will win on Saturday, but it's not impossible. Play this match 10 times, and United might win once or twice. Such is the nature of a low-scoring sport with a bouncing ball that outlaws the use of hands.

Five Ways United Could Win

1. Erling Haaland Can't Score

Finishing is unpredictable. In his first Premier League season, Haaland scored 36 goals from 123 shots. This season, he scored 27 goals from 121 shots. If he has another off day, United's chances improve.

2. André Onana's Heroics

United will likely face many shots. Their goalkeeper, André Onana, has had some stellar performances. If he plays exceptionally well, United's odds of winning increase.

3. City Can't Control the Boxes

City usually dominates ball possession and box touches. In their losses, they average fewer touches in the opposition box and allow more in their own. United needs to exploit this.

4. United Plays Competently and Hopes for the Best

City is the world's top team, while United is 33rd. In games where a lower-rated team wins, they still manage to create chances. United needs to limit City's dominance and create their own chances.

5. Pray

A red card early in the game would drastically change the odds. If City plays with 10 men, United's chances improve significantly.

Conclusion

While it’s improbable, there are scenarios where Manchester United can win. The FA Cup hinges on a combination of strategy, luck, and perhaps a bit of divine intervention.