These first legs are tough and at times cagey affairs, but perhaps not in a Manchester derby at Old Trafford where both sides have plenty of reasons for giving this everything.
For differing reasons both sides need to put in a good display, City seem resigned to missing out on the league this year so need to try and sweep up the cups again, while United have hit yet another slump after yet another false dawn and could do with a pick-me-up.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side did win a couple of games over Christmas, but they were sandwiched between defeats to Watford and Arsenal, and followed with a drab stalemate at Wolves.
City also have revenge on their minds after United went to the Etihad and beat them 2-1 in a classic smash-and-grab on the counter attack. United managed just 28 percent possession that day but could have won by more as CIty left themselves open at the back time and time again.
Despite this game being at Old Trafford, United will again operate in the same style and sit back, looking to spring forward with pace in behind City's defence - which remains their huge weakness.
United actually hold a 5-4 record in the last 11 Manchester derby games, and the Red Devils have certainly got a better record against the better sides this season. They're unbeaten against top eight teams and have won at Chelsea in the Carabao Cup.
Harry Maguire is a big doubt with injury though, and he'd be a big miss for the hosts who are already a massive price at around 4/1 to win the game, and almost 3/1 just to get a draw. That's a big price considering this is just the first leg.
City should win though but with both teams having scored in four of the last five Manchester derbies, and neither confident at the back, take them to do so having conceded.
Prediction: Man Utd 1-2 Man City (Sky Bet odds: 15/2)
Best bet: Man City to win & both teams to score at 21/10
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