Ipswich vs Blackpool Prediction, Match Preview, Saturday, 10 January

Ipswich will face Blackpool in an intriguing FA Cup clash this Saturday, 10 January. The match will take place at Portman Road, the home ground of Ipswich, which could provide them with a significant advantage. Both teams are eager to progress in this prestigious tournament, making this encounter crucial for their respective campaigns.

Ipswich, known for their strong performances at home, will be looking to capitalise on their familiarity with Portman Road to secure a victory. Meanwhile, Blackpool will aim to upset the hosts and advance further in the FA Cup. With both teams having a lot at stake, this match promises to be a competitive and closely contested affair.

Ipswich vs Blackpool Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Ipswich Town to Win	1.8

Ipswich Town look set to continue their impressive form, especially given their strong home advantage and historical dominance over Blackpool. Our recommended betting tip is an Ipswich win at estimated odds of 1.80. This is supported by Ipswich’s solid home performances and Blackpool’s recent inconsistencies.

• Ipswich have won 6 of their last 12 meetings against Blackpool, showing a clear historical advantage.
• Despite missing key players, Ipswich’s squad depth has maintained their recent winning streak.
• Blackpool’s inconsistent form, with recent losses despite having a fully fit squad, favours Ipswich’s chances.

Betting Odds

Ipswich are the clear favourites in this FA Cup clash at Portman Road, with betting odds heavily in their favour at 1.28. Blackpool, on the other hand, are seen as the underdogs with odds of 9.06, making them a tempting punt for those looking for a big upset.

Betting Tip	Odds
Ipswich to win	1.28
Draw	5.38
Blackpool to win	9.06

The draw is priced at 5.38, reflecting the bookmakers’ confidence in Ipswich’s home advantage. For those eyeing alternative markets, considering Ipswich to win with a handicap or exploring the over 2.5 goals market could offer additional value.

Ipswich Analysis & Past Performance

Ipswich have demonstrated robust form in recent fixtures, securing three wins in their last five matches. Their recent performances highlight their attacking prowess, notably in their 3-1 victory over Sheffield Wednesday and a 2-0 away win against Coventry. This run of form has seen Ipswich scoring an average of 1.60 goals per game, while conceding an average of 1.00 goal in their last five encounters.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Ipswich	Oxford	2 – 1 (Win)	Championship	1 Jan 2026
Coventry	Ipswich	0 – 2 (Win)	Championship	29 Dec 2025
Millwall	Ipswich	0 – 0 (Draw)	Championship	26 Dec 2025
Ipswich	Sheffield Wednesday	3 – 1 (Win)	Championship	20 Dec 2025
Leicester	Ipswich	3 – 1 (Loss)	Championship	13 Dec 2025

Recent Form:
Ipswich’s home form has been particularly impressive, with an unbeaten streak of five games, comprising four wins and one draw. The team has maintained a solid defensive record at home, achieving two clean sheets in their last five matches. Their ability to control possession, as evidenced by a 64% possession rate in their recent 2-1 win over Oxford, further underscores their tactical discipline and effectiveness.

Team Dynamics:

• WWDWL

The team have shown resilience, with a 60% win ratio in their last five games and a strong 80% win ratio in home matches. Ipswich’s ability to both score and defend, alongside a balanced team effort, makes them a formidable side at Portman Road. However, maintaining consistency in away performances could be crucial as they push for higher league standings.

Ipswich Suspensions & Injuries

Ipswich enter this match against Blackpool with a clean bill of health, which means manager Kieran McKenna has the luxury of selecting from a full squad. This absence of injuries and suspensions provides Ipswich with an opportunity to field their strongest lineup, bolstering their chances in this FA Cup encounter. A full-strength squad can significantly influence the tactical approach, allowing McKenna to deploy his preferred formation and strategies without any constraints.

With players like Chuba Akpom leading the line and a solid defensive setup featuring Darnell Furlong and Dara O’Shea, Ipswich can focus on maintaining their defensive solidity while exploiting Blackpool’s weaknesses. The availability of key midfielders such as Jens-Lys Cajuste and Marcelino Núñez ensures that Ipswich can dominate the central areas, facilitating fluid transitions between defence and attack.

The tactical impact of having no unavailable players cannot be overstated, as it allows Ipswich to maintain their recent momentum and adaptability. McKenna can opt for either a more aggressive approach or a balanced setup, depending on the flow of the game, without worrying about missing personnel.

For betting enthusiasts, the full availability of Ipswich’s squad might suggest a stronger likelihood of a home victory against Blackpool. This depth and flexibility could tilt the odds in Ipswich’s favour, making them a potentially safer bet in this fixture.

Ipswich Key Players

As Ipswich prepare to face Blackpool, the focus will undoubtedly be on their key players who have consistently delivered impactful performances. Despite not having specific data on the top scorer, Ipswich’s attacking prowess will be crucial. The forward line is expected to be dynamic, with players capable of turning the game in Ipswich’s favour through their creativity and precision. The midfield will likely play a pivotal role, acting as the engine room to drive the team forward and maintain possession.

In defence, Ipswich’s backline will be tasked with maintaining a solid structure to thwart any advances from Blackpool. The defenders’ ability to read the game and make timely interventions will be crucial to Ipswich’s tactical setup. The goalkeeper, although unnamed, will need to command the area with authority to ensure a clean sheet.

Ipswich’s tactical approach is likely to focus on leveraging their midfield’s strengths to control the tempo of the game. The interplay between the midfield and the forwards will be instrumental in breaking down Blackpool’s defence. With a balanced approach, Ipswich aim to capitalise on their strengths and secure a favourable outcome at Portman Road.

Ipswich Tactics and Formation

Ipswich Tactical Breakdown:

• Previous Formation: 4-1-4-1
• Key Forward: Chuba Akpom
• Midfield Engines: Azor Matusiwa and Jens-Lys Cajuste
• Defensive Record: Two clean sheets in last five matches
• Notable Strategy: Dominant possession play and high pressing.

Ipswich have recently favoured a 4-1-4-1 formation, which allows them to dominate possession and control the tempo of the game. The midfield, anchored by Azor Matusiwa, provides a solid base for both defensive stability and launching attacks. Jens-Lys Cajuste plays a pivotal role in linking the defence and attack, ensuring fluid transitions.

Defensively, Ipswich have been robust, achieving two clean sheets in their last five outings. The back four, previously including Dara O’Shea and Cédric Kipré, will be crucial in maintaining their defensive solidity. Their high pressing strategy often disrupts opponents’ build-up play, allowing them to regain possession quickly.

Offensively, the focus is on Chuba Akpom, who leads the line and is supported by dynamic wingers like Jaden Philogene-Bidace. Their ability to exploit spaces, especially on counterattacks, is a key element of their attacking play, making them a formidable threat in transition.

Blackpool Analysis & Past Performance

Blackpool’s recent form has been inconsistent, with three wins and two losses in their last five fixtures. This run includes a notable 4-0 victory over Rotherham and a 1-0 win against Doncaster, but also heavy defeats such as the 5-1 loss to Port Vale. The team managed to score in all five matches, indicating a strong attacking presence.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Blackpool	Bradford	1 – 2 (Loss)	League One	4 Jan 2026
Port Vale	Blackpool	5 – 1 (Loss)	League One	1 Jan 2026
Blackpool	Rotherham	4 – 0 (Win)	League One	29 Dec 2025
Blackpool	Doncaster	1 – 0 (Win)	League One	26 Dec 2025
Wigan	Blackpool	0 – 2 (Win)	League One	20 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

• LLWWW

Blackpool have averaged 1.80 goals per game while conceding 1.40 over their last five matches, showcasing their ability to find the net consistently. Despite this attacking prowess, the defensive unit has been less robust, with the team conceding in two of these matches. Away from home, Blackpool have struggled slightly more, securing just two wins out of five, with a win ratio of 0.40. Their ability to keep clean sheets has been commendable, achieving three in the last five games, which demonstrates potential defensive solidity when they are at their best.

Blackpool Suspensions & Injuries

Blackpool head into their FA Cup clash against Ipswich with a full squad, devoid of any injuries or suspensions. This rare situation allows manager Ian Evatt the luxury of selecting his preferred starting eleven without any forced changes. The availability of all players ensures that Blackpool can field their strongest lineup, potentially giving them an edge in both tactical flexibility and squad depth.

The absence of injuries or suspensions could prove crucial in maintaining Blackpool’s consistency and stability on the pitch. With key players like Bailey Peacock-Farrell in goal and a robust midfield presence with Albie Morgan and George Honeyman, the team can focus on executing their game plan without the distractions of unavailable players.

In terms of tactical impact, having a full squad means Blackpool can maintain their usual formation and style of play, whether it involves a high-pressing game or a more defensive setup. This flexibility might prove advantageous against an Ipswich side that will need to be wary of Blackpool’s ability to adapt and apply pressure throughout the match.

From a betting perspective, the full availability of Blackpool’s squad might influence odds, as punters could view this as a sign of strength and potential for a positive result. The absence of any disruptions in their lineup enhances their chances of performing at their best, making them a potentially attractive option for those looking to bet on an FA Cup upset.

Blackpool Key Players

Blackpool will heavily rely on their top scorer, Ashley Fletcher, who has netted 3 goals so far this season, to spearhead their attacking efforts against Ipswich. Fletcher, known for his physical presence and adept finishing skills, will be crucial in unsettling the Ipswich defence. His ability to hold up play and bring teammates into the game makes him a pivotal figure in Blackpool’s offensive strategy.

In the midfield, the focus will likely be on the creativity and tactical awareness of the players expected to start. Their role in transitioning play from defence to attack is vital, and they will need to be sharp to exploit any weaknesses in Ipswich’s setup. The midfield’s ability to control the tempo and maintain possession could be a decisive factor in determining the flow of the match.

Defensively, Blackpool’s expected lineup will need to be organised and resilient to withstand Ipswich’s attacking threats. The defensive unit’s ability to maintain a solid structure and communicate effectively will be key in preventing any potential breakthroughs. Their collective performance will be essential in maintaining a clean sheet and providing a platform for the team to build upon.

Blackpool Tactics and Formation

Blackpool Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Expected 3-5-2
• Key Forward: Ashley Fletcher
• Midfield Pivot: Albie Morgan and George Honeyman
• Defensive Strength: Recent clean sheets in League One
• Notable Strategy: Utilises wing-backs for width and crossing opportunities.

Blackpool’s 3-5-2 formation, under the guidance of coach Ian Evatt, provides a balanced approach between defence and attack. The use of three central defenders, including Oliver Casey and Zac Ashworth, offers a solid backline, while the wing-backs, such as Andy Lyons, provide width and support in both offensive and defensive phases.

In midfield, Albie Morgan and George Honeyman are pivotal in controlling possession and breaking up opposition play. This duo is crucial in transitioning the play quickly to the forwards, with Josh Bowler adding creativity and Scott Banks offering width on the flanks.

Offensively, Blackpool rely heavily on the striking partnership of Ashley Fletcher and Tom Bloxham, with Fletcher being a key goal threat. The team focus on creating chances through wide play and effective crossing, capitalising on Fletcher’s aerial ability. Despite recent losses, Blackpool have shown resilience in their defensive setup, achieving clean sheets in their League One campaign.

Ipswich vs Blackpool Head-to-Head Record

Ipswich and Blackpool have faced off 19 times, with Ipswich leading the head-to-head record with 10 wins compared to Blackpool’s 4, and 5 matches ending in a draw. The last encounter saw Ipswich triumph 2-0 at home in a League One match back in February 2021.

The last time these two met in the FA Cup is not on record, making this an intriguing clash at Portman Road. Ipswich have been strong at home, winning the last time they hosted Blackpool 3-2 in a Championship match in April 2015.

Home Side	Away Side	Score	League	Date
Ipswich Town	Blackpool	2 – 0	League One	2021-02-06
Blackpool	Ipswich Town	1 – 4	League One	2020-10-10
Blackpool	Ipswich Town	2 – 1	League One	2020-02-29
Ipswich Town	Blackpool	2 – 2	League One	2019-11-23
Ipswich Town	Blackpool	3 – 2	Championship	2015-04-11