Blackpool vs Carlisle Prediction, Match Preview, Sunday, 7 December

Blackpool vs Carlisle Prediction, Match Preview, Sunday, 7 December. The FA Cup presents an intriguing clash as Blackpool face Carlisle at Bloomfield Road. Scheduled for Sunday, 7 December, this match promises to be a captivating encounter between two English sides eager to progress in this prestigious competition. Blackpool, with the advantage of playing at home, will look to use their familiarity with Bloomfield Road to secure a win against Carlisle.

Carlisle, meanwhile, will be aiming to upset the odds and make their mark in the FA Cup. Both teams have shown resilience in their respective leagues, and this fixture provides them with a platform to showcase their capabilities on a bigger stage. The outcome of this match could set the tone for their cup runs, making it a significant event for both clubs and their supporters.

Blackpool vs Carlisle Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Both Teams to Score (BTTS) – Yes	1.9

Given the attacking nature of both teams and Blackpool’s defensive struggles, our recommended betting tip is for both teams to score. Carlisle United’s recent unbeaten streak and attacking firepower, combined with Blackpool’s consistent scoring but leaky defence, make this a compelling choice.

• Blackpool have scored in 10 consecutive matches, showcasing their consistent ability to find the net.
• Carlisle United’s confidence and scoring prowess, highlighted by a 3-2 win over Reading, suggest they are likely to score again.
• The absence of Blackpool’s key defender James Husband further weakens their already vulnerable backline, increasing the likelihood of conceding.

Betting Odds

Blackpool are the favourites heading into this FA Cup clash at Bloomfield Road, with betting odds reflecting their superior league position. However, Carlisle’s odds suggest they could spring a surprise, especially given the unpredictable nature of cup ties.

Betting Tip	Odds
Back Blackpool to win	1.98
Draw	3.54
Back Carlisle to win	3.41

For those looking to bet, the draw also presents a tempting option, considering the potential for a tightly contested match. Keep an eye on the over 2.5 goals market, as both teams have shown a knack for finding the net in recent fixtures.

Blackpool Analysis & Past Performance

Blackpool’s recent form has been disappointing, with a run of five games without a win. The team have lost four of their last five matches, including a 2-4 defeat against Harrogate Town in the EFL Trophy. Their only point during this period came from a 1-1 draw against Leyton Orient.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Harrogate Town	Blackpool	4 – 2 (Defeat)	EFL Trophy Final Stage	2 Dec 2025
Blackpool	Reading	0 – 3 (Defeat)	League One	29 Nov 2025
Leyton Orient	Blackpool	1 – 1 (Draw)	League One	22 Nov 2025
Burton	Blackpool	1 – 0 (Defeat)	League One	15 Nov 2025
Tranmere	Blackpool	2 – 1 (Defeat)	EFL Trophy Northern Group B	11 Nov 2025

Recent Form:
Blackpool’s attack has struggled, averaging just 0.80 goals per game in their last five matches. They have only managed to score in three of these games. Defensively, the team have been porous, conceding an average of 2.20 goals per match and failing to keep a clean sheet.

Despite their recent struggles, Blackpool have shown resilience at home. They have won three out of their last five home games, demonstrating a 60% win ratio at Bloomfield Road. However, their overall season statistics indicate a need for improvement, with a win ratio of just 40% across their last ten matches.

Ashley Fletcher remains a key figure for Blackpool, being the top scorer with one goal in recent outings. The team will need to leverage his attacking capabilities to turn their fortunes around. The lack of clean sheets highlights a pressing need to bolster their defensive solidity as they prepare for the upcoming FA Cup clash against Carlisle.

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Blackpool Suspensions & Injuries

Blackpool approach their FA Cup clash against Carlisle with a full squad available, as there are no injuries or suspensions to report. This clean bill of health provides manager Ian Evatt with the luxury of fielding his strongest side, aiming to leverage the depth and quality across the pitch.

The absence of any unavailable players means that Blackpool can maintain their preferred tactical setup, potentially sticking with a formation that has served them well in recent fixtures. The continuity in player selection is likely to bolster team chemistry and fluidity, allowing them to execute their strategic game plan with precision.

Having all players fit could be crucial for Blackpool as they look to assert their dominance early in the match. With no forced changes, the team can focus on exploiting any weaknesses in the Carlisle setup, utilising their full range of attacking and defensive options.

In terms of betting implications, Blackpool’s full-strength squad might see them favoured by the bookies. The availability of key players ensures they can approach the game with confidence, potentially influencing market odds in their favour.

Blackpool Key Players

Blackpool’s attacking threat begins with their top scorer, Ashley Fletcher, who has netted one goal this season. Fletcher’s role as a forward is pivotal, as he combines physical prowess with a keen eye for goal, making him a constant danger to Carlisle’s defensive line. His ability to hold up play and bring teammates into the attack could be crucial in breaking down the opposition’s defence.

In midfield, the spotlight is on Blackpool’s playmakers, who are expected to orchestrate the game’s tempo. Their ability to control possession and deliver precise passes will be essential in creating goal-scoring opportunities for Fletcher and the forward line. Furthermore, Blackpool’s defensive unit, though not specified in the lineup data, is likely to rely on disciplined organisation and tactical awareness to stifle Carlisle’s attacking moves.

The tactical impact of these key players will likely shape Blackpool’s approach, emphasising a balanced mix of solid defence and incisive attacking play. By leveraging their strengths, particularly Fletcher’s goal-scoring ability, Blackpool aim to exploit any weaknesses in Carlisle’s setup, making the most of their home advantage at Bloomfield Road.

Blackpool Tactics and Formation

Blackpool Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Expected 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Ashley Fletcher
• Midfield Anchor: Kenny Dougall
• Defensive Concerns: Conceded 11 goals in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Focus on attacking transitions and high pressing.

Blackpool are likely to set up in a 4-3-3 formation, which provides a balanced approach both offensively and defensively. Ashley Fletcher will spearhead the attack, supported by wingers who exploit wide areas to stretch the opposition. The midfield, anchored by Kenny Dougall, plays a critical role in both shielding the defence and transitioning the ball forward quickly.

Defensively, Blackpool have struggled, conceding 11 goals in their last five outings. This vulnerability highlights a need for improved coordination among the backline, which may include changes to solidify their structure and reduce gaps exploited by opponents.

Offensively, Blackpool tend to focus on quick transitions and applying high pressure to regain possession swiftly. This approach has been effective in creating scoring opportunities, although consistency in finishing these chances remains a challenge.

Carlisle Analysis & Past Performance

Carlisle have displayed commendable form in their recent matches, maintaining an unbeaten streak across their last five outings. Noteworthy victories include a 2-1 win against Tamworth and a solid 2-0 triumph over Halifax. Their ability to secure wins in tight contests has been a key strength.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Carlisle	Tamworth	2 – 1 (Win)	National League	29 Nov 2025
Boston United	Carlisle	1 – 2 (Win)	National League	22 Nov 2025
Carlisle	Eastleigh	1 – 1 (Draw)	National League	15 Nov 2025
Southend	Carlisle	1 – 2 (Win)	National League	8 Nov 2025
Carlisle	Halifax	2 – 0 (Win)	National League	4 Nov 2025

Recent Form:

• WWDWW

Carlisle’s attack has been consistent, averaging 1.80 goals per game in their last five matches. Defensively, they have conceded an average of 0.80 goals per match, achieving one clean sheet in this period. Their away performance has been particularly impressive, with a win ratio of 80%, reflecting their resilience on the road.

Carlisle Suspensions & Injuries

Carlisle enter the match against Blackpool with a full squad, as there are no current injuries or suspensions affecting the team. This availability provides manager Mark Hughes with the flexibility to select his strongest lineup, which could be pivotal in their FA Cup clash.

The absence of injuries means Carlisle can maintain their preferred tactical setup without needing to make any forced adjustments. This continuity could be advantageous as they seek to exploit any weaknesses in Blackpool’s setup.

With no suspensions hindering player selection, Carlisle’s depth on the bench will be crucial. They have the opportunity to introduce fresh legs late in the game, which could be a deciding factor if the match remains tightly contested.

The lack of unavailable players might influence betting markets, potentially boosting confidence in Carlisle’s ability to perform strongly. Bettors may view their full squad as a sign of stability, potentially impacting odds in their favour.

Carlisle Key Players

Carlisle’s attacking threat is spearheaded by their top scorer, Regan Linney, who has netted three goals this season. Linney’s adept positioning and keen eye for goal make him a constant threat in the final third, and his ability to exploit defensive weaknesses will be critical against Blackpool. His role as a forward means he’ll be tasked with leading the line and converting any chances that come his way.

In midfield, Carlisle rely heavily on their playmakers to control the tempo and supply the forwards. The midfielders are expected to create opportunities and maintain possession under pressure, which will be crucial in dictating the flow of the game. The tactical impact of a well-organised midfield cannot be understated, as they serve as the link between defence and attack.

Expected lineup for Carlisle

Carlisle Tactics and Formation

Carlisle Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Flexible due to lack of specific formation data
• Key Player: Regan Linney (Top Scorer)
• Recent Performance: Undefeated in last five games with four wins and one draw
• Notable Strategy: High-scoring games and effective away performance

Carlisle’s tactical approach has been adaptable, possibly influenced by Mark Hughes’ strategic flexibility. The lack of a specific formation in the lineup data suggests a potential for tactical fluidity. With Regan Linney as the top scorer, Carlisle’s attacking efforts are likely centred around his ability to capitalise on scoring opportunities.

Defensively, Carlisle have managed one clean sheet in their last five matches, indicating room for improvement in maintaining defensive solidity. However, their ability to win away games, with an impressive record of four wins and one draw, underscores their effectiveness on the road.

Offensively, Carlisle have been involved in high-scoring affairs, averaging 1.8 goals per game across their last five matches. This attacking prowess is complemented by their resilience, having both teams score in four of their last five games, showcasing their ability to respond to conceding goals.

Blackpool vs Carlisle Head-to-Head Record

In their last 12 encounters, Blackpool have a slight edge over Carlisle with six wins to Carlisle’s five, and just one draw. The most recent meeting saw Blackpool secure a 1-0 victory away at Carlisle in League One back in April 2024. This FA Cup match-up adds a different dimension, as they have not clashed in this competition recently.

When Blackpool hosted Carlisle last December in League One, they put on a dominant display, winning 3-0 at Bloomfield Road. This suggests a strong home advantage for Blackpool, which could be crucial in this FA Cup tie.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Carlisle United	Blackpool	0 – 1	League One	2024-04-13
Blackpool	Carlisle United	3 – 0	League One	2023-12-09
Carlisle United	Blackpool	0 – 1	Club Friendlies	2021-07-24
Carlisle United	Blackpool	2 – 1	EFL Trophy Northern Group G	2019-10-15
Carlisle United	Blackpool	1 – 4	League Two	2017-02-11