In a high-stakes FA Cup Round of 64 clash, Ipswich Town faces off against Blackpool on January 10, 2026, at Portman Road. The tension couldn't be higher as Ipswich rides the wave of momentum from recent Championship success, while Blackpool struggles to stay afloat in League One's turbulent waters. With both teams looking for a decisive victory to continue their cup run, this match is a potential tipping point in their respective seasons.
Predicted Lineups
For Ipswich, expect a formation setup like this: GK: Christian Walton, DEF: Cédric Kipré, Dara O'Shea, Leif Davis, Darnell Furlong; MID: Azor Matusiwa, Jens Cajuste; FWD: Jaden Philogene-Bidace, Jack Clarke, Chuba Akpom. On the other hand, Blackpool is likely to field: GK: Bailey Peacock-Farrell, DEF: Oliver Casey, Andy Lyons, James Husband; MID: CJ Hamilton, Albie Morgan, George Honeyman; FWD: Ashley Fletcher and Tom Bloxham.
Tactical Insights and Recent Form
Ipswich's recent form has been impressive-they've won three out of their last five matches and maintained an aggressive playing style that emphasizes ball possession and relentless pressure. Against Oxford United in their last outing, Ipswich dominated possession with 64%, registering a total of 19 shots compared to Oxford's mere eight. Their attacking prowess is underscored by key players like Jaden Philogene-Bidace, who's scored six goals this season and boasts an excellent average rating around 7.14.
Conversely, Blackpool enters this fixture with significant troubles-two heavy defeats (1-5 against Port Vale and 1-2 against Bradford) highlight defensive frailties and a lack of clinical finishing in front of goal. Their average possession sits around the mid-50s percentile range; however, they've struggled to convert that into meaningful chances lately. In stark contrast to Ipswich's 19 shots against Oxford United, Blackpool only managed seven against Bradford. If they are to upset the odds at Portman Road, they'll need to convert more effectively than their recent form suggests.
Statistical Battle Points
A focal point of the match will undoubtedly be the battle for possession. Ipswich excels at maintaining control and dictating tempo-evidenced by their passing accuracy hovering around 86% recently compared to Blackpool's lower rating in the low 70s range. This disparity could give Ipswich's midfielders plenty of time and space to operate effectively.
Set-piece situations could also prove crucial in deciding the outcome; Ipswich generated nine corners against Oxford while conceding fewer than two per game on average-a clear indicator of how often they manage play in opposition territory versus defending under pressure. Meanwhile, Blackpool has displayed inconsistency in handling set-pieces defensively which could become fatal if they're unable to manage an organized backline under pressure.
Key Players To Watch
Expect electric performances from several pivotal figures on either side. For Ipswich:
- Chuba Akpom: Though he hasn't found the net recently (with no goals in his last five), his experience and ability to draw defenders can open up space for others.
- Jack Clarke: Another attacking threat boasting solid technical ability has contributed significantly during critical matches.
For Blackpool:
- Ashley Fletcher has emerged as a bright spot amidst their struggles; with five goals across competitions this season (a standout player), he'll need to capitalize on whatever opportunities arise.
- Keep an eye on Josh Bowler-the midfielder scored crucial goals during pivotal fixtures before going quiet-he may be due for a resurgence just when it counts most.
Conclusion
With contrasting trajectories leading into this encounter-a side soaring high versus one scraping through-it's tough not to lean heavily towards Ipswich as favorites for victory here at Portman Road. They have demonstrated robust form filled with attacking flair complemented by strong defensive structure-a combination that should see them through against a beleaguered Blackpool team struggling with consistency both offensively and defensively.
Expectations for this match culminate into one striking prediction: Ipswich emerges triumphant with a scoreline reflecting their recent dominance-likely 3-1 or perhaps even heavier depending on how quickly they can exploit gaps left by Blackpool's wavering defense. If trends hold true-with both teams' current form considered-Ipswich Town should seize this moment as an opportunity not just to advance but also make a statement about their ambitions in this year's FA Cup run!