Oxford United face a tricky Third Round tie against Arsenal at Kassam Stadium in 2022-23 FA Cup.
Victory would see Oxford Utd qualify for the Fourth Round for first time since 2019-20 season, whilst Arsenal are looking to avoid consecutive Third Round exits for the first time since 1980-81 & 81-82 seasons.
The winner of this tie will now face Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium in the Fourth Round.
Team News
Brandon Fleming could make his debut for Oxford Utd after joining on loan from Hull City ahead of the player registestration deadline on Friday (6 January).
Manager, Karl Robinson otherwise has no fresh injury concerns and plans to field a strong first-team line-up for this match.
Arsenal could welcome Emile Smith Rowe back into contention following his recovery from a groin injury, which has kept him out for four months.
Reiss Nelson (thigh) and Gabriel Jesus (knee) remain absent.
When is Kick-Off?
Oxford United will meet Arsenal on Monday 9 January at 8pm GMT at Kassam Stadium, with the tie broadcast live in UK on ITV.
Stat Attack
- Oxford Utd have lost each of their two previous FA Cup ties against Arsenal (L2), although this is the Us’ first tie against Arsenal in this competition to be played at home.
- Arsenal lost their only previous away meeting against Oxford United in all cup competitions, as they lost 3-2 in Third Round of 1984-85 League Cup.
- Oxford Utd have scored once and conceded seven goals against Arsenal in their two previous FA Cup meetings, albeit at the Gunners’ former home – Highbury Stadium.
- Oxford United have won just one of their last six FA Cup meetings against Premier League opposition (W1, D2, L3).
- Arsenal have won three of their last five FA Cup ties against lower-league opposition (W3, L2), with both losses coming against Nottingham Forest in January 2018 and 2022 respectively.
Prediction
Despite having lost just two of their last 13 matches in all competitions, Oxford Utd’s defence hasn’t exactly been their strong point amidst their attacking quality so this will be a huge test of their defensive ability here.
Arsenal meanwhile just lacked the final touch needed to beat Newcastle in midweek so will be eager for a reaction, plus I can’t see Mikel Arteta repeating the mistakes he made at Forest in this round last season which hopefully will mean a near full-strength team including Smith Rowe.
Quite frankly, I am struggling to see Oxford Utd winning this tie because Arsenal on paper should have too much quality for them, although a goal would be a decent result against a team which can leak goals.
Prediction: Oxford United 1-3 Arsenal
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