Preston vs Wigan Prediction: 09.01.2026 FA Cup 2025/26 Preview

With cup magic in the air at Deepdale Stadium, Preston North End welcome Wigan Athletic for an all-Northwest clash in the FA Cup Round of 64. This isn’t just a contest of local pride; it’s a litmus test for two teams heading in opposite trajectories—Preston are brimming with newfound confidence after a solid run, while Wigan search for a spark to ignite their campaign. Will form or the romance of the cup prevail?

For Preston, the creative spark of Alfie Devine in midfield and the clinical threat of Lewis Dobbin up top will be key. Wigan, meanwhile, lean on the resolute defending of James Carragher and the pace of Dara Costelloe to make their mark. Both teams rely on collective energy, but quality individuals might tip the balance.

Hot stat? Preston are unbeaten in 7 of their last 8 outings, including back-to-back clean sheets heading into this fixture—a defensive solidity that could prove decisive.

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Preston vs Wigan prediction

Given Preston’s recent form and defensive resilience, the hosts look primed for progress. Their midfield press has been effective, snuffing out danger and swiftly transitioning into attack—a style that could unsettle a Wigan side who have struggled for rhythm, particularly on the road. The Lilywhites’ ability to maintain possession (average pass accuracy 75.6%) while committing relatively few fouls compared to their opponents suggests they’ll look to dictate tempo and avoid unnecessary set-piece threats from Wigan.

Wigan, meanwhile, are still seeking fluency, with only one win in their last six and a slightly more indisciplined profile, evidenced by higher yellow and red card tallies in recent matches. Their threat may lie in counters and set plays, banking on the pace of Costelloe and the industry of Callum Wright. But do they have enough to break through a stubborn Preston back line?

Physically, expect a robust contest: the two sides combine for over 22 fouls per game and above average corners (16 in Preston’s last 5, 18 for Wigan), suggesting the aerial duel will be pivotal. This, along with recent form data, hints at a hard-fought—potentially low-scoring—encounter.

Team Analysis

Preston’s recent games offer a blend of grit and growing confidence. Their last match, a tidy 2-0 win against Bristol City, saw them combine defensive discipline with sharp attacking sequences—Devine buzzing between lines, and Dobbin stretching the opposition. Their past run (WWW-DLD-WDD) underscores a knack for tight games, with clean sheets in their latest two showing a side learning to close out contests. Goals have been spread across the team, and while they’re not prolific, they’re efficient: 7 goals and 8 yellow cards in their last five, conceding just three.

Wigan’s recent games paint a different picture. Though their 2-0 victory over Burton showed flashes of cohesion, the subsequent defeat to Cardiff (0-1) emphasised their frailties when under sustained pressure. Goal output is an issue (just 4 scored in the last 5 matches), and a porous midfield has left their back line exposed. Set-pieces do offer promise, but their ill-discipline (5 yellows, 2 reds in 5) has disrupted their rhythm and potentially their lineup continuity.

Most recent Head-to-Head Matches

🚨Read our full Preston vs Wigan stats for more analysis.

Pre-game odds and win probability: Preston the favourite

• Moneyline Preston 1.92 | Wigan 4.20
• Draw 3.55
• Over/Under Over 2.5 2.28 | Under 2.5 1.62
• BTTS (both teams to score) Yes 2.11 | No 1.68

Bookmakers are understandably leaning towards Preston—not only are they at home, but their recent results and composure in big moments justify the confidence. Odds for Wigan lengthen given their struggling away form and a leaky defence, while the relatively low value for under 2.5 goals and BTTS ‘No’ suggests the market expects a tactical battle rather than a goal fest.

You can find all our predictions for today’s games on our football betting tips page.

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Possible Starting Lineups

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My take on the Match

I’m tipping Preston to edge this one. Their recent defensive improvement and attacking discipline have added balance that Wigan currently lack. Provided they keep a disciplined shape and make use of set-piece opportunities, Preston should progress—though the cup always carries a twist! Wigan’s competitive spirit means it won’t be simple, but form rarely lies. For me, a 1-0 or 2-0 victory to the home side looks the standout outcome, ensuring their exciting FA Cup journey continues with optimism and purpose.

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