For our Stoke vs. Brighton prediction, we're going for a 3-1 win for the away side
Brighton are looking to cap off an excellent season with a deep run in the FA Cup as they take on Stoke City in the 5th round.
Stoke City reached the 5th round of the FA Cup by beating Hartlepool United and Stevenage.
The Potters have had a fairly dismal season the Championship for the most part but as a decent recent run has eased any fears of relegation they can gloss over an otherwise forgettable campaign with a deep run in the FA Cup.
They enter this game amidst a reasonable run of form having won two, drawn one and lost two of their last five matches, the most recent of which was a 0-1 defeat Millwall.
Stoke’s home form is much more encouraging, however, having won three, drawn one and lost one of their last five matches on home soil.
Stoke are fairly decently placed to take on Premier League opposition but unfortunately for them they’re taking on one of the most professional, competent sides in the Premier League.
Brighton & Hove Albion reached the 5th round of the FA Cup by beating Middlesbrough and Liverpool.
The Seagulls have had a frankly excellent campaign in the Premier League this season as they sit 8th in the league table with European football in their sights.
They enter this game amidst a solid run of form having won two, drawn two and lost one of their last five matches.
They should be well rested here, too, having not played since February 18th where they were beaten 0-1 by Fulham.
Brighton’s away form has been very good of late, with Roberto De Zerbi’s men winning three and drawing two of their last five games on the road.
Brighton have already faced Championship opposition in this competition this season, and one of the league’s better sides in Middlesbrough, and they passed that test in with flying colours with a 5-1 win away from home.
Stoke are not as good of a side as Middlesbrough and providing Brighton play to their potential they should win this without too much trouble. This is a competition Brighton could make a real statement in given their quality so De Zerbi should be fielding a strong starting XI here.
Don’t forget to check out the rest of our previews, tips and offers for this weekend’s action.