Sunday's FA Cup semifinal at Wembley represents a chance for both Chelsea and Manchester City to rescue their seasons. Both teams expected to contend for a title and progress into the knockout stage of the Champions League this season, but they've been nothing of the sort. While Chelsea's supporters won't accept anything less than a top four league finish for their team, something that's all but assured for City, a trophy should go a long way towards calling this season a relative success for either side if they beat Wigan in the final.
Chelsea vs. Manchester City, 2013 FA Cup: Preview and TV schedule
The FA Cup could be a season-rescuing trophy for either Chelsea or Manchester City.
Rafa Benitez has been rotating his side, as he's known to do, and is expected to leave out John Terry and Frank Lampard to start the semifinal. City recently put their best foot forward in the Manchester Derby on Monday, refusing to rest anyone against their rivals even though Manchester United already have the title locked up. The Blues should be the fresher of the two sides, but they also have more serious injury issues.
Chelsea injuries and suspensions
Out: Ashley Cole, Gary Cahill, Oriol Romeu. In doubt: Demba Ba.
Manchester City injuries and suspensions
Out: Maicon, Micah Richards. In doubt: David Silva.
None of these injuries are anything new for either team. Both Silva and Ba could potentially play depending on their fitness on the day of the game. Cole and Cahill are nearing a return for Chelsea.
Match date/time: Sunday, 4 p.m. local, 11 a.m. ET
Venue: Wembley Stadium, London, England
TV: ITV 1 (U.K.), FOX Soccer (U.S.), Sportsnet World (Canada)
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