The Premier League and FA Cup semi-finals provide a weekend packed with drama. Here are ten things to watch out for.
1. Forest Aim to Stifle Black Cats' Personality
Nottingham Forest, under Vitor Pereira, are unbeaten in five Premier League games and could move closer to safety with a win at Sunderland. Sunderland's counterattacking style will be tested as Forest likely sit deep. Nordi Mukiele's runs from right-back and the midfield creativity of Noah Sadiki and Enzo Le Fee will be crucial for the hosts.
2. Fulham Still Waiting to Get Better of Emery
Unai Emery has faced Fulham eight times and won all eight, with an aggregate score of 22-6. Aston Villa's manager owes his job to a loss to Fulham in 2022, which led to Steven Gerrard's sacking. Marco Silva's Fulham aim to break the streak.
3. Hammers Playing at Everton's Level
West Ham and Everton have near-identical records since mid-January, with both winning five of their last 12 games. West Ham's Callum Wilson has scored eight goals in 11 games against Everton, his favorite opponent after West Ham.
4. Fragile Spurs Must Take Chance at Wolves
Roberto De Zerbi's Tottenham, still winless in 2026, face a relegated Wolves side that has conceded 12 goals in four matches. A win could provide a psychological boost for Spurs' survival fight.
5. Reds Will Keep a Close Watch on Wharton
Liverpool's Champions League hopes could hinge on a top-five finish. Adam Wharton, a target for Liverpool, returns from injury for Crystal Palace. His performance at Anfield will be closely monitored.
6. Saints Look to End Half-Century Wait
Southampton aim to end a 50-year trophy drought in the FA Cup semi-final against Manchester City. Despite City's dominance, Southampton's unbeaten run of 20 games gives them hope for an upset.
7. Eze Could Help Arsenal Sustain Title Hopes
Eberechi Eze impressed in a rare start for Arsenal against Manchester City. With Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli out of form, Eze may start again against Newcastle as Arsenal seek to regain top spot.
8. McFarlane Takes Charge Once Again
Calum McFarlane steps in as interim Chelsea manager after Liam Rosenior's dismissal. With a squad lacking direction, McFarlane faces a tough task against Leeds in the FA Cup semi-final.
9. Longstaff's Leveller Gives Leeds Belief
Sean Longstaff's stoppage-time equalizer against Bournemouth lifted Leeds, extending their unbeaten run to seven games. The goal, though controversial, provides a morale boost ahead of the FA Cup semi-final.
10. Carrick Still Under Probation Period
Michael Carrick's Manchester United need two wins to secure Champions League football. Brentford, unbeaten in six but drawing five, visit Old Trafford. United aim to continue Carrick's impressive interim spell.
