MCI vs WAT Dream11 Prediction: Manchester City vs Watford EFL Cup Fantasy Football Tips

Manchester City and Watford are set to face off in the EFL Cup third round on Tuesday, September 24, at the Etihad Stadium. While City will be eyeing another deep run in a competition they’ve dominated in the past, Watford arrives hoping to cause a major upset. Here’s what to expect from this exciting encounter.

Manchester City has made the EFL Cup one of their favourite competitions under Pep Guardiola, winning it four years in a row from 2018 to 2021. However, they haven’t added to their tally since then, focusing more on winning the Champions League and Premier League.

Despite a recent slip-up, drawing 2-2 with Arsenal in a Premier League thriller, City remains a dangerous side, especially at home. The defending Premier League champions are also eager to bounce back after being knocked out in this round last year by Newcastle United. Given their strong squad depth, City will still be firm favourites, even with some rotations expected.

Watford, under manager Tom Cleverley, has already played two rounds in the EFL Cup, defeating MK Dons 5-0 and Plymouth Argyle 2-0 to set up this clash with Manchester City. However, their recent form in the Championship has dipped, with only one point from their last three games in September.

Despite this, Watford will be keen to prove themselves on a big stage, even though they’ve had a tough time against City in recent years. The Hornets haven’t beaten City since 2017 and have suffered 15 consecutive defeats against the Manchester giants, conceding an average of nearly four goals per game.

Man City Starting Lineup

Ortega; Lewis, Stones, Simpson-Pusey, Wilson-Esbrand; Nunes, Wright; O’Reilly, McAtee, Grealish; Foden

Manchester City is expected to make a host of changes for this cup tie, especially with several key players nursing injuries. Midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne (groin injury) is unlikely to feature, and star midfielder Rodri has been ruled out for the season with an ACL injury. Defender Nathan Ake and rising star Oscar Bobb are also sidelined.

Guardiola may give opportunities to youngsters from City’s Under-21s, with names like Nico O’Reilly likely to feature. Expect familiar faces like Phil Foden and Jack Grealish to play a role, but City could rotate much of their first-choice lineup.

Watford Starting Lineup

Bond; Morris, Pollock, Porteous; Ebosele, Dele-Bashiru, Sissoko, Sema; Chakvetadze, Baah; Bayo

Watford’s preparations haven’t been smooth either. Goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann and centre-back Francisco Sierralta both picked up muscle injuries in their recent loss to Norwich City and won’t be available. Backup keeper Jonathan Bond and defender Ryan Porteous are expected to step in.

In addition, striker Daniel Jebbison is cup-tied, meaning Watford will have to reshuffle their attacking options. With key players missing and their confidence low after recent Championship struggles, it could be a tough night for the Hornets.

MCI vs WAT Dream11 Prediction

GK: Ortega

DEF: Lewis, Stones, Pollock

MID: Dele-Bashiru, Foden, McAtee, Grealish, Nunes

FW: Baah; Bayo

• Phil Foden: The talented playmaker is likely to start and will be one of City’s key creative outlets. His vision and passing could cause major problems for Watford’s defense.
• Nico O’Reilly: City’s highly-rated youngster could get a chance to shine in midfield. Keep an eye on his movement and ability to pick out teammates in dangerous positions.
• Jonathan Bond: Watford’s backup keeper will need to be at his best to keep the scoreline respectable. City will pepper his goal with shots, so he’ll be tested early and often.

Who will win Manchester City vs Watford EFL Cup match?

Even with a much-changed lineup, Manchester City’s strength in depth makes them overwhelming favourites for this tie. Watford has struggled lately, and with key defensive injuries, it’s hard to see them holding off City’s attack for 90 minutes.

Expect a solid, professional performance from City, with goals likely coming from their younger talents. While Watford may fight hard, it’s unlikely they will be able to overcome the Premier League champions at the Etihad.

Despite Watford’s best efforts, Manchester City’s quality and experience should see them comfortably through to the next round.