Plymouth is living a true fairy tale, reaching the 5th round of the FA Cup after stunning Liverpool. Now, they visit Manchester City in a match that will determine whether their incredible run continues, or if they wake up from this beautiful dream.
To add even more intrigue, this clash has become crucial for Pep Guardiola’s side. With their Premier League and Champions League titles hopes nearly gone, the FA Cup represents their only shot at silverware this season. Kickoff at Etihad Stadium is scheduled for Saturday, March 1, at 12.45 p.m. ET.
Here is my Manchester City vs. Plymouth Argyle prediction and FA Cup odds for today's match.
Manchester City vs. Plymouth Argyle Prediction, Pick, Odds
| Man City Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
-2.5 -165 | 3.5 -155o / +110u | -2500 |
| Plymouth Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
+2.5 +115 | 3.5 -155o / +110u | +2000 |
- Manchester City vs. Plymouth Argyle moneyline odds: Manchester City -2500, Draw +1400, Plymouth Argyle +2000
- Manchester City vs. Plymouth Argyle over/under: 3.5 goals (over -155/ under +110)
- Manchester City vs. Plymouth Argyle pick: City ML and Over 9.5 Total Corners
I am backing Manchester City to win and over 9.5 corners in the Manchester City vs. Plymouth Argyle match.
Manchester City Prediction
The Citizens defeated Tottenham 1-0 on the road last Wednesday to hold on to fourth place in the Premier League. Sitting 20 points behind league leaders Liverpool, their focus has shifted to securing a Champions League spot and seek redemption after their early exit at the hands of Real Madrid.
Given this scenario, the FA Cup has become their only opportunity to lift a trophy. While it may seem like a consolation prize for a team accustomed to domestic and European dominance, the history and prestige of this tournament still make it a valuable target.
City has won this cup seven times, most recently in 2023. Last year, they lost the final to their arch-rival Manchester United, so they’ll be eager for a shot at redemption in the final set for May 17 at Wembley stadium.
Erling Haaland scored the only goal in the match against Tottenham, marking his return from a minor knee injury. He is fit to play if the manager decides to use him. However, John Stones and Manuel Akanji remain sidelined, meaning recent signing Vitor Reis could see some minutes in this fixture.
Plymouth Argyle Prediction
Founded in 1886, Plymouth has never competed in England’s top division. Known as The Pilgrims, they currently sit 22nd in the Championship, fighting to avoid relegation once again.
On February 9, they secured one of the most remarkable victories in their 139-year history. In front of their home crowd, they defeated Liverpool 1-0 thanks to a penalty converted by Ryan Hardie, a Scottish striker and their main attacking threat.
Since that match, Plymouth has recorded one win, one loss, and two straight draws in the Championship. But now, all eyes are on the FA Cup, with an estimated 7,800 fans making the trip to Manchester to support their team in this dream of pulling off another giant-killing.
The dream of surpassing their best-ever FA Cup run—a semifinal appearance in the 1983–84 season—looks extremely difficult. Aside from the strength of their opponent, they are also missing key players, including Hardie himself and fellow forward Muhamed Tijani.
Manchester City vs. Plymouth Argyle Pick
Plymouth has already pulled off one miracle, but expecting another upset against Manchester City feels closer to a miracle. The key difference from their match against Liverpool? City actually has something to play for. With the FA Cup as their only remaining shot at silverware, they won’t take this game lightly.
With City’s moneyline at -2500, betting on a simple win offers little value. The real question is how to combine different legs to make the payout worthwhile in what looks like a heavily one-sided affair.
For early bettors, one option is to add Manchester City over 9.5 corners. City is a team that relentlessly attacks down the flanks and will be up against a deep defensive block determined to stop them at all costs before the ball reaches the box.
For those who prefer to wait until the last minute, if Omar Marmoush starts in attack, betting on him to score could also be a solid play.
