Man City are the bookmakers’ favourites to beat Chelsea at Wembley on Saturday 16 May. Here are our top FA Cup Final 2026 betting tips and best value bets.
The FA Cup Final 2026 is here — and Nigerian punters have a massive match to bet on this Saturday. Chelsea face Manchester City at Wembley on 16 May, kick-off 16:30 BST (17:30 Nigeria time). These are our best FA Cup Final 2026 betting tips to help you make the most of the occasion.
Manchester City are heavy favourites across all major bookmakers. According to BettingOdds.com, City are priced around 1.68 to win in 90 minutes. But this is a cup final — and City have lost their last two. The value may not be as clear-cut as the odds suggest.
Manchester City have not lost to Chelsea in 14 competitive meetings. That run includes 11 wins and 3 draws. On paper, this fixture is a City banker.
Pep Guardiola’s side also have motivation beyond the trophy. City already won the EFL Cup this season. A FA Cup win would complete the domestic cup double — a rare achievement. Furthermore, they know the Premier League title race is slipping from their grasp. Arsenal lead by two points. This cup final is now City’s clearest route to silverware.
However, City are without Gvardiol, who suffered a tibia fracture. Their defensive depth will be tested. Despite this, their squad quality is still well above Chelsea’s.
Recommended bet: Manchester City to Win (90 Minutes) — available at approximately 1.68 on Bet9ja and SportyBet. This is the market’s strongest pick. City’s head-to-head dominance and squad depth make them the logical selection.
Chelsea’s season has been inconsistent. They have won only 3 of their last 12 Premier League games. That record does not inspire confidence ahead of a showpiece occasion.
Their injury list is a serious concern. Mykhaylo Mudryk is suspended. Estevão is ruled out for the season. Pedro Neto and Alejandro Garnacho are both racing to be fit. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez may return, which would be a boost.
Still, Chelsea are a threat. They have found form in the cup when it matters. All three of their recent wins came in the FA Cup run. Enzo Maresca will organise his side to be compact and hit on the counter.
Chelsea to win is available at approximately 4.00. The value is there only if you believe in a massive upset. Based on current form, that is a stretch. Avoid backing Chelsea to win in 90 minutes unless you want a high-risk flutter.
Both teams to score (BTTS) looks attractive here. City will create chances — they always do. Chelsea’s attack, even depleted, is capable of a goal. Neto’s potential return adds sharpness to their front line.
City have conceded in 4 of their last 6 cup matches this season. Chelsea scored in both their semi-final legs. The conditions are right for a goal at each end.
Recommended bet: Both Teams to Score — Yes, available at approximately 1.85 on Bet9ja. This is the pick with the best risk-reward ratio in this final.
Want to build a small acca around the FA Cup Final? Here is a two-leg combo:
This is a moderate-risk combo. City’s dominance justifies the first leg. The BTTS leg adds value without requiring a Chelsea win. Stake no more than one unit on this. It is higher risk than a single selection.
Here is the value angle: Manchester City to Win and Both Teams to Score — available at approximately 3.20 on SportyBet. City win but Chelsea grab a consolation is a realistic outcome. It happened in their last meeting. The combined market offers near double the value of a straight City win.
One match, one occasion — do not bet your whole weekend bank on the cup final. Stick to 1–2 units maximum. Cup finals are notoriously unpredictable. Manage your stake, set a limit before kick-off, and do not chase losses after the match. Enjoy the football first.
For more picks and guides, visit our today’s free betting tips and see our best betting sites in Nigeria.
Responsible gambling: Betting should be for entertainment only. Only bet what you can afford to lose. If gambling is affecting you, contact the NLRC helpline.
For the full weekend Premier League betting tips, read our Premier League Gameweek 37 Betting Tips. More information on the FA Cup on BBC Sport.
Responsible gambling: Betting should be for entertainment only. Only bet what you can afford to lose. If gambling is affecting you, contact the NLRC helpline.
