According to reports, for many, it’s a dream. A sweet addition to another cake, an enhancement to a historic and unforgettable season. For others, it’s a necessity—another goal, almost an obligation that must be fulfilled to salvage a season that has occasionally taken on a tragic tone.

Nottingham Forest and Manchester City will face off in the second FA Cup semi-final of the 2024-25 season at Wembley, with similar standings but different emotions. Both teams are separated by just one point in the race for a Champions League spot: Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad sits sixth with 60 points, while Pep Guardiola’s team is fourth with 61 points.

But now, their consistency or fluctuations in the Premier League no longer matter much. This historic English knockout tournament pays no heed to form or momentum. If in doubt, just ask Manchester City from last season.

Perhaps the surprising and unexpected defeat to Manchester United in last season’s FA Cup final (2-1) marked the beginning of the end for the best sky-blue team in the club’s history, despite securing a fourth consecutive Premier League title. Pep Guardiola has won 18 titles as Manchester City’s manager, and this FA Cup represents one of his last chances to avoid ending the season without silverware.

Nottingham Forest has gone even longer without tasting glory. Although their return to Wembley isn’t too distant—having come back to the Premier League in 2022 after 23 years away—we must go back to 1990 to recall their last triumph, the League Cup. Their last FA Cup victory dates back to 1959.

Guardiola on Kevin De Bruyne’s departure: “It would be nice if he leaves with a trophy.” However, they must first overcome Nuno Espirito Santo’s team, but the goal is to return to Wembley for the final, where Crystal Palace awaits.

Additionally, an exciting return to Manchester City’s lineup is on the horizon. Guardiola said: “Rodri wants to play (in a potential final), but the doctor must allow me to give him minutes.” Erling Haaland has also returned to training, like the Spanish midfielder. On the other side, doubts linger over Ederson’s availability for City and a serious question mark over Ola Aina for Nottingham Forest, while Neco Williams and Ryan Yates will be absent due to suspension. Expect a thrilling and hard-fought second FA Cup semi-final.