When is the Manchester City vs Plymouth Argyle match and how to watch it? FA Cup broadcast

The Manchester City vs Plymouth Argyle match can be watched on ESPN+ on Saturday, March 1, at 12:45 PM ET / 9:45 AM PT. From the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City, led by Pep Guardiola, will aim to advance in the FA Cup, while Plymouth Argyle, under Miron Muslic, will seek to continue their giant-killing run. Discover how both teams arrive, their recent results, and the possible lineups for this crucial clash.

Match Preview: Manchester City vs. Plymouth Argyle

As the FA Cup reaches its fifth round, Manchester City hosts Plymouth Argyle at the Etihad Stadium in a matchup that pits Premier League prowess against Championship determination. The home side, Manchester City, has had an inconsistent season, with moments of brilliance overshadowed by unexpected defeats. Meanwhile, Plymouth Argyle has been on a remarkable cup run, having already dispatched Premier League teams Brentford and Liverpool in previous rounds. Both teams will aim for a strong performance as they vie for a spot in the quarter-finals.​

Manchester City's main challenge will be maintaining focus against lower-league opposition, ensuring they don't underestimate their opponents. On the other hand, Plymouth Argyle will rely on their disciplined defense and strategic planning, hoping to capitalize on any complacency from the hosts. This game could be a defining moment for both teams in their respective campaigns.​

Recent Performances

Manchester City's Recent Matches

Manchester City has experienced a mixed bag of results recently. They secured a 1-0 away victory against Tottenham Hotspur on February 26, demonstrating defensive solidity. However, this was preceded by a 2-0 home loss to Liverpool on February 23, where they struggled to break down a resilient defense. Earlier, in the Champions League, they faced a 3-1 defeat away to Real Madrid on February 19, highlighting vulnerabilities on the European stage. The team will need to find consistency and capitalize on their home advantage to progress further in the FA Cup.​

Plymouth Argyle's Recent Matches

Plymouth Argyle has been on an inspiring run, especially in cup competitions. They managed a 1-1 draw at home against Cardiff City on February 22, showcasing resilience. Prior to that, they earned another 1-1 draw away to Luton Town on February 19, indicating their ability to secure results on the road. Their standout performance came on February 12, with a commanding 5-1 home victory over Millwall, reflecting their attacking prowess. This momentum will be crucial as they face a formidable Manchester City side.​

Head-to-Head

Historically, Manchester City and Plymouth Argyle have had limited encounters, with their last meeting dating back to the 1988-89 season. In that fixture, Manchester City secured a 3-1 home victory, asserting their dominance. While past records favor the hosts, Plymouth's recent giant-killing feats suggest they cannot be underestimated. This upcoming match offers a fresh chapter in their head-to-head history, with both teams eager to make their mark.​

Potential Lineups

Manchester City (4-2-3-1)

• Goalkeeper: Ederson​
• Defenders: Matheus Luis Nunes, Abdukodir Khusanov, Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol​
• Midfielders: Nicolas Gonzalez, Mateo Kovacic​
• Forwards: Savio, Omar Marmoush, Jeremy Doku​
• Striker: Erling Haland

Plymouth Argyle (3-4-2-1)

• Goalkeeper: Conor Hazard​
• Defenders: Maksym Talovierov, Nikola Katic, Victor Palsson​
• Midfielders: Kornel Szucs, Adam Randell, Jordan Houghton, Tymoteusz Puchacz​
• Forwards: Callum Wright, Rami Hajal​
• Striker: Mustapha Bundu​

Predictions and Betting Odds

Given their status as Premier League giants and home advantage, Manchester City enters this fixture as the overwhelming favorite. Their attacking firepower and depth suggest they have the tools to secure a comfortable victory. However, Plymouth Argyle's recent upsets in the competition indicate they are capable of surprising higher-tier teams.​

• Manchester City Win: -1600​
• Draw: +1000
• Plymouth Argyle Win: +2800

While an upset is always possible in cup competitions, the smart money would be on Manchester City to progress, potentially with a multi-goal margin.​

Match Details

• Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025​
• Time: 12:45 PM ET (9:45 AM PT)​
• Tournament: FA Cup – Fifth Round
• Stadium: Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England​

Where to Watch Manchester City vs. Plymouth Argyle Live?

Fans can watch the Manchester City vs. Plymouth Argyle match live on ESPN+ this Saturday, March 1, starting at 12:45 PM ET (9:45 AM PT).