Stoke City is gearing up for one of its most important matches of the season, as it prepares to face Cardiff City in the FA Cup at the Bet365 Stadium. This encounter presents a significant challenge, as both teams are determined to secure their place in the next round of England’s most historic tournament.
Manager Mark Robins understands the magnitude of this match, especially given Cardiff City's consistent performances in the EFL Championship.
"It's a process but the level is going up."
— Stoke City FC (@stokecity) February 7, 2025
Hear from the gaffer ahead of Bluebirds battle ⤵️
However, Stoke City has also shown signs of improvement, making this a highly competitive fixture. Both teams see the FA Cup as an opportunity to progress and potentially face Premier League opposition, adding extra motivation to this already intense matchup.
Mark Robins' vision for Stoke City as he heads the club
Since taking over as manager, Robins has focused on rebuilding Stoke City into a competitive team capable of delivering consistent performances. In recent statements, he highlighted that his primary goal is not just winning matches, but also creating a strong identity and a disciplined playing style.
READ MORE: A fascinating history between Stoke City and Cardiff City in an FA Cup clash
His project at Stoke City is still in development, but signs of progress have already been evident in recent performances.
The way forward for Stoke City
With Stoke City determined to push forward, a victory against Cardiff City would not only extend their FA Cup journey but also boost confidence for the remainder of the season. The possibility of facing a Premier League club in future rounds makes this a crucial moment for the team.
As the match approaches on February 8, The Potters will look to capitalize on their home advantage and deliver a strong performance, knowing that success in this competition could mark a turning point in their season.