Carlisle vs Cardiff Predictions

• When the pair met in the original tie, Cardiff enjoyed more than double the shots and shots on target Carlisle did.
• Carlisle have conceded two or more in four of their last six home FA Cup matches against higher-level opposition.

Wins few and far between for hosts

For all their draw in Cardiff was something to be proud of, Carlisle have been struggling to get their heads in front in League Two of late. They’ve lost each of their last two, conceding a worrying seven goals in the process, while they’ve won just one of their last nine. Such form isn’t ideal ahead of a match against Championship opposition.

Even at home, Wednesday’s hosts have found it tough to put their best foot forward of late, winning just one of their last seven at Brunton Park. They have at least lost just one of their last five in front of a home crowd.

Fortunately for the hosts, league form isn’t the be all and end all when it comes to the FA Cup. Carlisle have already proved they can tussle with a side of Cardiff’s calibre, even if they weren’t fully deserving of a draw when the teams met less than fortnight ago.

Bluebirds winless in three

Much like Carlisle, Cardiff have been struggling to pick up regular wins. Neil Harris’ men have won just one of their last seven, though they’ve only lost one of those seven, so it’s fair to say the Bluebirds have been competing.

Given there’s an entire division (and then some) separating the teams, Cardiff will have been disappointed to not walk away as winners when the pair met in Wales less than a fortnight ago, and not least because they dominated in terms of possession, shots and shots on target. Then again, their performance will allow them to feel confident ahead of this fixture.

Visitors to thrive offensively

In the betting, ‘Cardiff to Win & Over 1.5 Goals’ stands out as a viable option. The Bluebirds may have failed to beat Carlisle at home, but we shouldn’t be fooled by the result. They were easily the better side and outperformed their visitors in all areas, particularly in terms of both shots and shots on target.

Add in the fact Wednesday’s hosts conceded twice on that occasion, alongside the fact they’ve struggled defensively in League Two of late, shipping seven in two, and a bet on the Championship side to both win and enjoy themselves offensively in the process appeals. Our correct score tip is 2-1 to Cardiff.