Wrexham have avoided PL opponents in the predicted FA Cup draw but face a tough task ahead in the 4th round.
Every Wrexham fan will be anticipating the wait for the FA Cup 4th round draw. There are just 4 hours to go at the time of writing and after that, the Reds fanbase will know exactly how much can they expect from the 4th round fixtures set to take place on Valentine’s Day eve.
The exact dates of the tie will also be revealed, including whether or not the draw makers fulfill Phil Parkinson’s wishes for a home clash. Will it be a Premier League club arriving at the Racecourse again?
Lowkey, there are many fans who will have already started praying to get clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea on home turf. Some of them, may be crossing fingers for an easy 5th round pass like let’s say, a trip to FA Cup history makers Macclesfield.
Both scenarios will be mouth watering in terms of wanting a magical FA Cup day, but the list of opponents is quite long for Wrexham. Any of the remaining 31 squads could be asked to lock horns with Phil Parkinson’s men and according to an early prediction, it could be one of the Dragons tough Championship peers.
Predicted FA Cup draw: Wrexham face Stoke City
As per The 44’s Supercomputer predictions, Wrexham’s fate could turn to be a clash against Stoke City. From the outside, Stoke have long lost their Premier League status and don’t boast about any top-flight titles as Wrexham.
But Stoke City’s legacy can’t be downplayed just like that. There is an infamous saying among English football circles. That goes, “But can they do it on a cold, rainy night in Stoke?”
Countless Premier League heavyweights like Manchester United, Manchester City, and even the invincibles Arsenal have found it challenging to emerge out of Stoke with a win. So, how much chance does Wrexham stand against them coming on the back of a world-beater’s form?
Wrexham vs Stoke City: Previous head-to-head stats
Going back in time, Wrexham vs Stoke City matchup has happened 15 times without any draws till date. As expected, Stoke have enjoyed a significant upper hand in those clashes with 14 wins to their name, as compared to only one win for the Reds.
Being fellow second tier rivals, two Wrexham vs Stoke City fixtures were scheduled for the regular season. The Potters have claimed a 1-0 win while hosting the Red Dragons, where it’s important to note that Stoke were closer to the top while Wrexham were near the bottom of the standings before heading into kickoff.
Last weekend, both Wrexham and Stoke City were competing as FA Cup underdogs in their respective games. The Racecourse witnessed the Reds dumping Premier League boys Nottingham Forest out of the competition.
On the other hand, Stoke City succumbed promotion favourites Coventry City to a bitter 1-0 defeat in front of the delighted Stoke fans.
Predictions for potential Wrexham vs Stoke City FA Cup tie
Stressing on the fact that the two sides have never shared spoils before, I’m going for a result within the regulated 90 minutes. Stoke City have historically been a strong defensive unit, even this season their backline has leaked the fewest goals in the Championship.
For that reason, Wrexham will need some worldies like Matty James’ and Liberato Cacace’s bottom-corner strike to be able to net multiple goals. Couple that with giving away only 1 goal in return, the Reds can book their ticket to the FA Cup fifth round with a 2-1 win.
Not to rule out extra times or penalties, but Wrexham should be getting the best of Stoke with a fit and firing front three at Parkinson’s disposal.
