The recent FA Cup quarter-final results have clarified which clubs will participate in the upcoming Double Gameweek 33 (DGW33) and the Blank Gameweek 34 (BGW34) in the Fantasy Premier League. Double Gameweeks allow teams to play two matches, providing managers with the opportunity to score additional points. In contrast, Blank Gameweeks occur when several clubs have no matches scheduled.
Key Clubs in DGW33 and BGW34
Following their impressive performances, Manchester City and Chelsea are confirmed for DGW33. Their victories ensured advancement to the FA Cup semi-finals. The semi-finals will take place on April 25-26, coinciding with BGW34.
Confirmed Fixtures for DGW33
- Brighton: Spurs (Away), Chelsea (Home)
- Burnley: Nottingham Forest (Away), Manchester City (Home)
- Chelsea: Manchester United (Home), Brighton (Away)
- Manchester City: Arsenal (Home), Burnley (Away)
Manchester City secured a dominant 4-0 victory over Liverpool, while Chelsea overwhelmed Port Vale with a 7-0 win. These victories have implications for their upcoming Premier League matches.
Impact of Arsenal’s Defeat
Arsenal’s surprising 2-1 defeat to Southampton means they will not enjoy a Double Gameweek. They are scheduled to face Manchester City in DGW33 and Newcastle in BGW34 as planned.
Strategic Planning for Fantasy Managers
Fantasy Premier League managers are focusing on strategies to maximize their points. Many are considering deploying their Wildcard in Gameweek 32. This approach allows them to assemble a squad with players who will participate in DGW33.
The intention is to use the Bench Boost chip during DGW33, potentially resulting in points from 30 players. Following this, the Free Hit chip can be utilized in BGW34 for a one-week squad that navigates the reduced fixture list.
Potential Future Double Gameweeks
Manchester City has another match pending rescheduling against Crystal Palace, which may pave the way for additional Double Gameweeks later in the season. This strategy heightens the appeal of investing in City players.
FA Cup Quarter-Final Implications
As for the remaining FA Cup quarter-finals, West Ham faces Leeds on Sunday. The outcome will determine the DGW33 and BGW34 scenarios for both teams:
- If West Ham wins:
- Fixtures: Crystal Palace (Away), Everton (Home)
- If Leeds wins:
- Fixtures: Wolves (Home), Bournemouth (Away)
This match will significantly impact the upcoming match schedules in both the FA Cup and the Premier League. Fantasy managers will be closely monitoring these outcomes.
