Manchester United vs Tottenham: Three key battles to look out for during the FA Cup semi-final
Here, we take a look at those personal battles which could shape the game
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Manchester United face Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday at Wembley Stadium with both teams vying for a place in the FA Cup final.
Both sides boast star-studded line-ups, with the game likely to see a number of one-on-one clashes take place throughout the match.
Here, we take a look at those personal battles which could shape the game:
Nemanja Matic vs Christian Eriksen
Eriksen heads into the clash in stunning form. The former Ajax man has had a hand in six goals in his last seven Premier League games, with three strikes and three assists. He also netted two in the previous round’s 3-0 victory over Swansea City.
Allowing for possibly Harry Kane, Eriksen has been one of the most consistent performers for Mauricio Pochettino’s team all season. His ability to find space between the lines and pick a pass will surely be a huge test for United’s Matic.
The Serbian midfielder has been one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League over the past few seasons so it will be interesting to see who has the edge at Wembley.
Kieran Trippier vs Alexis Sanchez
Sanchez has somewhat underwhelmed following his arrival at Old Trafford, but the Chilean thrives on the big stage. He has scored five goals in his last six appearances at Wembley Stadium.
His skill and pace could see him present a big threat to Spurs defender Trippier, who will be given licence to attack with his total of eight assists so far this season, which the former Barcelona man could exploit.
The Tottenham full-back has had a promising season, though, and has arguably become the club’s first-choice right-back following the departure of Kyle Walker to Manchester City.
Davinson Sanchez vs Romelu Lukaku
Signed from Ajax for big money in the summer, Sanchez has had a great first season with Tottenham. The Colombian has claimed a starting spot from Toby Alderweireld and his assured performances alongside Jan Vertonghen have resulted in Spurs chalking up one of the best defensive records in the Premier League.
He has a physical battle on his hands this weekend up against United forward Lukaku. The Belgian is in great form lately and has netted in every round of the FA Cup so far his season, a run he will be hoping to continue at Wembley.
The forward has, however, received criticism from some quarters for his performances in big games so it should be a fascinating contest between the two, which Sanchez could well be quietly confident in gaining the upper hand.
The 21-year-old kept a clean sheet in the league meeting at Wembley back in January which Tottenham won 2-0.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments