Manchester City aim to evade their first FA Cup third-round exit in over a decade as they host Huddersfield on Sunday.
In the past, teams like Blackburn, Rotherham, and Port Vale, considered underdogs, have felt the full force of the treble-winners at this stage of the tournament.
However, the upcoming clash doesn't hold the same anticipation for an upset, as Huddersfield find themselves languishing in the relegation zone of the Championship following a string of just one victory in eight matches. Expectations are low for them to cause a surprise this time.
The venue for this fixture is set at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester.
Manchester City vs Huddersfield Prediction
At Etihad Stadium, Manchester City has displayed remarkable proficiency. Guardiola's squad has managed to net two or more goals in eight out of their recent ten matches.
Having secured victory in 13 of their last 20 games and sustaining an undefeated streak in the preceding four matches, the defending champions exhibit a formidable run.
Prediction: A formidable Manchester City side is expected to dominate, with a score-line of 4-0.
Manchester City vs Huddersfield Team News
This week saw the return of Erling Haaland and Jeremy Doku to training following their injury spells, possibly adding depth to the squad alongside the now fit-again Kevin De Bruyne, who recently featured on the bench in the win against Sheffield United.
However, there's a cloud over John Stones due to an injury concern, and even if he's fit, there's hesitancy about risking his inclusion.
Pep Guardiola tends to maintain a consistent lineup for FA Cup fixtures, indicating that Huddersfield should brace themselves for a formidable City team.
On the other side, Huddersfield face the absence of Japanese defender Yuta Nakayama as he gears up for the Asian Cup.
Manchester City vs Huddersfield Head-to-head
Huddersfield Town face a considerable challenge overturning historical trends, with their last victory against Manchester City dating back to November 1999. Chris Beech netted the lone goal in a Division One (Championship) clash at Maine Road.
The head-to-head record tilts significantly in favour of Manchester City, boasting 28 victories compared to Huddersfield's 22 wins, with 30 matches concluding in a draw.
