Three key talking points for Preston vs Aston Villa in the FA Cup quarter-final | OneFootball

In the only FA Cup quarter-final that does not feature an all-Premier League clash, Championship side Preston North End hosts Aston Villa. Preston currently sits 14th in the Championship table, while Villa is ninth in the Premier League. Here’s what to look out for in this intriguing matchup.

1. A clash of different levels

It has become increasingly rare for teams outside the Premier League to make deep runs in domestic cup competitions. Preston North End, despite being just nine points above the Championship relegation zone, has defied expectations with their FA Cup campaign so far.

They have had relatively favorable draws until now. The only team they have faced that sits above them in the English football pyramid was Burnley, currently third in the Championship and among the favorites for promotion to the Premier League next season under Scott Parker.

Meanwhile, the gap in quality between Premier League and Championship teams remains significant. Aston Villa sits 24 places above Preston in the league hierarchy. They are also enjoying an excellent season, having reached the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals. Despite their ninth-place standing in the Premier League, they are only three points behind Manchester City in fifth, a position likely to secure Champions League qualification next season.

2. Recent history between the sides

This will be the first meeting between the two teams since the 2017-18 season when Aston Villa was still in the Championship. That match played at Deepdale, the venue for Sunday’s clash, ended in a 1-1 draw.

Villa has had the upper hand historically, winning five of their last 15 encounters and losing just once. The last three matches between them have all ended in draws, and if that trend continues, this match could head into extra time and possibly penalties. Only West Bromwich Albion has recorded more draws than Preston in the Championship this season.

Preston’s home form is another factor in their favor. They have lost just twice at Deepdale in the league this season and are unbeaten in their last 15 home matches across all competitions. If they can frustrate Aston Villa and push the game to penalties, they will have a real chance, just as they did earlier this season when they knocked out Fulham in the EFL Cup on penalties. However, should Villa break the deadlock early, it will be a difficult task for the home side to respond.

3. Aston Villa’s form and key players

Unai Emery’s side is in fine form. As mentioned, they have secured a place in the Champions League quarter-finals, where they will face French champions Paris Saint-Germain. They have won five of their last six matches in all competitions.

In the FA Cup, Villa has already overcome West Ham, Tottenham, and Cardiff City. However, all those victories came at Villa Park. Their away form has been far less convincing, with nine defeats in their last 15 matches on the road. Given Preston’s strong home record, this will be a tricky test for Emery’s men.