Prediction and odds: Manchester United (1/8) vs Charlton (14/1)

We’re backing Man United/Man United (HT/FT) at 1/2

When: Tuesday, 10th January 2022 – 8pm KO (GMT)

Where: Old Trafford

Manchester United will play host to Charlton Athletic this week in a David vs Goliath clash in the quarter-finals of the League Cup.

Manchester United

Manchester United continue to break boundaries this season and go to places they haven’t been in a long time. Erik ten Hag has been able to assemble a squad capable of producing results and that, in itself, is a huge achievement. The Red Devils still have a long way to go if they want to get back to the glory days, but this competition offers up a huge opportunity for them to kick on and win some silverware.

The short journey to the quarter-finals began against Aston Villa back in November. After what proved to be a gruelling encounter, United were able to get the best of their Midlands opponents with a 4-2 win at Old Trafford. Then, just a few weeks ago, they managed to grit their teeth and edge past Burnley with a 2-0 win over the Lancashire side to ensure they reached the last eight.

Charlton

For so long now, Charlton Athletic have been trying to claw their way back to the big time. In the mid-noughties they were one of the most intriguing teams to watch in the Premier League but in the years since, they’ve faltered. Now, they find themselves stuck mid-table in League One with dwindling crowds. If nothing else, this is exactly the kind of game that can – and will – inspire confidence and hope in a fanbase.

Charlton’s journey to this stage was a bit longer than their opponents. They first had to defeat Queens Park Rangers on penalties back in August, before just about getting past Walsall with a 1-0 win in the Black Country. Two more penalty shootouts followed for the Croatia of the League Cup, first managing to outlast Stevenage before somehow toppling Premier League high fliers Brighton.

Conclusion

This is the kind of game in which anything can happen, given the magic of the cup – even though it’s League, not FA. Charlton are going to bring a strong contingent of fans to Manchester and that alone should see them through the first half hour or so, only for United’s quality to shine through and give them a 1-0 lead heading into the break.

Charlton will attempt to break the favourites down but will still need to be wary of counter attacks, and eventually, they’ll fall victim to a goal built from pure quality. United will win 2-0 and go through to the semi-finals, but Charlton fans will fondly remember this day and what it means to the club. Or, at least, they should.

Our tips (all taken from bet365): Man United/Man United (HT/FT) at 1/2 + under 2.5 goals at 13/5

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