The FA Cup third round brings an intriguing clash between Ipswich Town and Blackpool, two clubs from different divisions but with a shared ambition of progressing in England’s oldest football competition. The Tractor Boys, currently competing in the Championship, will host the League One side at Portman Road on Saturday, January 10, 2026. While Ipswich enter the tournament at this stage, Blackpool have already battled through two earlier rounds, defeating Scunthorpe United and Carlisle United to earn their place. Despite the apparent gap in league status, the FA Cup’s unpredictable nature ensures that both sides will approach this tie with belief and determination.

Ipswich Town’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Ipswich Town come into this fixture in solid form, having beaten Oxford United 2-1 on New Year’s Day to remain among the top contenders in the Championship. Their recent record shows 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 defeat in the last five matches, averaging 1.6 goals scored and 1.0 conceded per game. At home, Ipswich have been particularly consistent — they haven’t lost at half time in their last 13 home matches and have led at the break in the last four. These numbers underline their ability to start games strongly and maintain control, especially in front of their supporters.

Historically, Ipswich have a proud FA Cup tradition, having lifted the trophy in 1978. However, they have not advanced beyond the fifth round in nearly three decades. This season, with promotion ambitions in the league and a confident squad, the Tractor Boys will look to balance their priorities while avoiding a potential upset. Their head-to-head record against Blackpool also offers encouragement: three wins, one draw, and one defeat in the last five meetings, with an average of 2.4 goals scored and 1.4 conceded. The most recent encounter ended 2-0 in Ipswich’s favor back in 2021.

Blackpool’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Blackpool arrive at Portman Road after a mixed run of results. Their latest outing was a 1-2 home defeat to Bradford City, marking a second consecutive league loss. Before that, the Tangerines had enjoyed a strong spell with four wins and one draw, helping them climb away from the League One relegation zone. In the FA Cup, however, their performances have been impressive: two wins from two matches, scoring an average of 2.5 goals and conceding just 0.5 per game.

Blackpool’s attacking consistency is notable — they have scored in each of their last 15 FA Cup matches and have seen over 0.5 goals at half time in their last 13 FA Cup fixtures. Moreover, over 0.5 goals in the second half have been recorded in 37 of their last 40 matches, showing their tendency to stay active and dangerous throughout games. Away from home, they have also been quick starters, leading at half time in their last three FA Cup away matches. These trends suggest that even against higher-tier opposition, Blackpool are capable of finding the net and making life difficult for their hosts.

Match Analysis and Tactical Overview

This third-round tie sets up a classic FA Cup narrative: a Championship promotion contender facing a lower-league side with nothing to lose. Ipswich Town will look to impose their rhythm early, using their home advantage and attacking depth to control possession and create chances. Their strong first-half record could again prove decisive if they manage to break the deadlock early. However, Blackpool’s resilience and attacking persistence, especially in the second half, make them a dangerous opponent. The Tangerines’ ability to score in virtually every FA Cup outing over the past few seasons highlights their offensive intent, even when facing stronger teams.

Given both teams’ recent scoring patterns, this fixture promises entertainment. Ipswich’s defensive solidity will be tested by a Blackpool side that thrives on open play and quick transitions. The hosts’ superior quality and home form make them favorites, but the visitors’ attacking consistency suggests that both sides could find the net. The last time these two met in the FA Cup, Ipswich edged a 2-1 win — a result that could easily repeat itself if the match follows current trends.

BetMines Prediction: Ipswich Town vs Blackpool

BetMines prediction for Ipswich Town vs Blackpool: Both Teams To Score (Yes) with 56% probability.

While Ipswich are expected to dominate possession and create more chances, Blackpool’s attacking record in the FA Cup suggests they will not go down quietly. The combination of Ipswich’s strong home form and Blackpool’s scoring consistency points toward a lively contest with goals at both ends. Expect an open and competitive match where both teams contribute to the scoreline.