Free Football Accumulator Tips and Predictions for this Week

by Luke Andrews, 13 January 2025

Midweek, the remaining FA Cup games take place with some thrilling third-round ties. Our betting experts have analysed the form and are backing Derby County, Mansfield Town, and Preston North End to secure victories in their respective matches against Leyton Orient, Wigan Athletic, and Charlton Athletic. Thanks to a 5% boost, this treble, priced at 9.66/1, offers a potential return of £111.43 on a £10 stake if successful.

It is the FA Cup third round, with some exciting fixtures on the horizon. To assist with your bets at football betting sites, our experts have analysed the fixtures and crafted an exhilarating treble for you to consider.

Derby County to Beat Leyton Orient (8/15)

For the Leyton Orient vs. Derby County match, Derby County will aim to leverage its strengths in attacking set pieces, aerial duels, and ball recovery. Recent performances have shown Derby’s potential, including a convincing 4-0 victory over Portsmouth and a hard-fought 2-1 win against West Bromwich Albion. These results highlight the team’s capability to perform against strong competition. Key players like Jerry Yates (six goals, two assists) and Ebou Adams (four goals), who have been instrumental in Derby’s offensive plays, will be crucial in this encounter. Currently positioned 18th in the Championship table, Derby is eager to climb the standings and will be looking for a strong showing in the FA Cup to boost their morale and momentum.

Leyton Orient will be looking to extend their impressive run of form, which includes a commanding 4-0 victory over Barnsley and successive wins against Crawley, Cambridge U, Bristol Rovers, and Shrewsbury. This string of excellent results underscores their ability to perform consistently at a high level, making a Derby win far from a certainty. Players like Tom James (two goals, four assists) and Charlie Kelman (seven goals, three assists) have been key contributors, and Orient will seek to capitalise on any weaknesses in Derby’s defence during this FA Cup clash.

While Leyton Orient are in excellent form, with a series of impressive victories, the higher quality and competitive nature of the Championship compared to League One suggest that Derby County have the edge in this matchup. Despite Leyton Orient’s resilience and strong home performances, the calibre of opposition Derby regularly faces in the Championship gives them a favourable chance of securing a win. This could make for a closely contested FA Cup tie, but I predict Derby’s experience at a higher level will ultimately see them prevail.

Mansfield Town to Beat Wigan Athletic (1/1)

Mansfield Town will be looking to build on their recent strong performances. They have demonstrated resilience and effectiveness, particularly with a 2-1 win against Bolton and a narrow victory over Stockport County. These results underscore their capability to compete fiercely in League One. Key players like 29-year-old Rhys Oates and Will Evans (ten goals) have been instrumental, contributing significantly to both their defensive solidity and attacking initiatives. Currently positioned 9th in League One, Mansfield is eager to push higher up the table and sees the FA Cup as an opportunity to continue their positive momentum.

Wigan Athletic, meanwhile, has faced a challenging season, with recent mixed results including a 3-0 loss to Birmingham and a 2-1 victory against Wrexham. Positioned 17th in League One, Wigan is striving to improve their league performance and will view the FA Cup as a chance to regroup and focus on their strengths, such as defending against attacks down the wings. Players like Will Keane (two goals) and veteran Callum McManaman will be vital if Wigan is to mount a challenge against a confident Mansfield side. Thelo Aasgaard is likely to be the main goal threat for Wigan, the 22-year-old Norweigan has six goals and two assists in the league and an FA Cup goal to his name.

While Wigan’s potential for a tactical surprise should not be underestimated, Mansfield Town’s recent form and home advantage give them a strong edge in this encounter. Mansfield’s consistency and ability to perform under pressure will see them secure a win in this FA Cup tie.

Preston North End to Beat Charlton Athletic (21/20)

For the Preston North End vs Charlton Athletic match, Preston North End will be keen to leverage their recent solid performances in the Championship. They have demonstrated resilience and capability with a 3-1 victory over Sheffield Wednesday and a 1-0 win against Hull City. These results highlight their ability to perform well against challenging opponents. Key players such as Emil Riis (seven goals, two assists) and English youngster Sam Greenwood (seven goals, two assists in all competitions) have been pivotal in driving their successful campaigns, providing leadership and attacking prowess.

Charlton Athletic, meanwhile, has shown flashes of potential in League One, but their form has been inconsistent, as evidenced by their recent 0-0 draw with Reading and a disappointing 5-0 loss to Northampton. Positioned 11th in League One, Charlton is aiming to stabilise their performances and will look to make a statement in the FA Cup. They will look to players such as Matty Godden (Two FA Cup goals and five League One goals) and Luke Berry (four goals and two assists) will be crucial in their efforts to challenge Preston’s defence and create scoring opportunities.

While Charlton could provide an upset that the FA Cup is infamous for, Preston North End’s recent form in a higher league and playing at home gives them a strong edge in this encounter. I believe Preston’s consistency and experience at the Championship level will see them secure a victory in this FA Cup tie.

This treble combines intriguing FA Cup third-round selections, offering an enticing potential return with competitive odds of 9.66/1. Odds are correct at the time of writing and may change.

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