As the FA Cup quarter-final between Manchester City and Liverpool approaches, attention has turned to which side will seize control in one of the standout ties of the round.
The meeting at the Etihad Stadium promises intensity, quality and high stakes, with both clubs targeting silverware in what has already been a demanding campaign.
Pundits and former internationals Owen Hargreaves and Joe Cole have weighed in on the contest, and both have arrived at the same conclusion: City’s attacking power, led by Erling Haaland, could prove decisive in determining who advances to the semi-finals.
City backed to make home advantage count
Manchester City enter the tie with confidence following recent success, having lifted the Carabao Cup shortly before the international break.
Under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, they have once again demonstrated their ability to compete on multiple fronts, combining tactical control with relentless attacking threat.
Liverpool, now managed by Arne Slot, face a significant challenge away from home. Trips to the Etihad have historically been difficult, and this encounter is unlikely to be any different given City’s form and depth.
Hargreaves believes that the setting could play a crucial role. Speaking on TNT Sports, he pointed to City’s strength on home soil and the likelihood of their leading striker making an impact.
“I’m going to go City. Just because of the fact they’re at home and I expect Haaland to score.”
That confidence reflects a broader sentiment surrounding Guardiola’s side, who often elevate their performances in front of their own supporters.
With a squad packed with technical quality and experience, City are widely viewed as favourites to progress.
Liverpool, however, have built a reputation for rising to big occasions. Despite the challenge, they possess the attacking tools to trouble any defence. Yet, against a team as structured and clinical as City, even minor lapses can prove costly.
Haaland tipped to deliver decisive blow
Much of the pre-match discussion has centred on Haaland, whose goalscoring record continues to set him apart.
The Norwegian forward has been prolific throughout the season, leading the Premier League charts with 22 goals in 29 appearances.
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Interestingly, he arrives at this fixture having gone three league games without scoring. For most players, such a run might raise questions, but Haaland’s track record suggests he rarely stays quiet for long—especially in high-profile matches.
His previous encounters with Liverpool this season underline that point. In both league meetings, he found the net and played a key role in securing victories for City.
That history has only strengthened belief among pundits that he could again be the difference-maker.
Cole, who enjoyed FA Cup success during his playing days, expects not just a City win but a standout performance from Haaland. He predicted a closely fought contest but ultimately sees the striker taking centre stage.
“I think Man City win the quarter-final. It’ll be a great game, I’m going to go 2-1 City, Erling Haaland to get a brace.”
