Port Vale vs Bristol City Prediction & Match Preview – Saturday, 14 February

Port Vale vs Bristol City Prediction & Match Preview sets the stage for an intriguing FA Cup clash this Saturday, 14 February. The match will take place at Vale Park, where Port Vale will host Bristol City in what promises to be a competitive encounter. Both teams are eager to progress further in this prestigious tournament, making this fixture significant for fans and bettors alike.

Port Vale, playing at home, will look to use their familiarity with Vale Park to gain an advantage over Bristol City. Meanwhile, Bristol City will aim to assert themselves and continue their FA Cup journey. With both sides targeting victory, this matchup is set to provide an exciting spectacle for supporters and a challenging puzzle for those considering their betting options.

Port Vale vs Bristol City Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Bristol City to Advance	1.95

Given the recent form and historical head-to-head record, our recommended betting tip for this match is to back Bristol City to qualify for the next round. Despite playing away and missing some key players, their superior squad depth and attacking quality should see them through.

• Bristol City have won three of their last five encounters with Port Vale, demonstrating a strong head-to-head advantage.
• Even with key absences, Bristol City’s overall squad depth and experience at this stage of the competition offer a significant edge.
• Port Vale’s inconsistency and weaker historical record against Bristol City make it less likely for them to progress.

Betting Odds

In this FA Cup clash, Bristol City are clear favourites with betting odds of 1.77, reflecting their higher league status and recent form. However, Port Vale at 4.26 could be a tempting underdog bet, especially with the home advantage at Vale Park.

Betting Tip	Odds
Port Vale to win	4.26
Draw	3.58
Bristol City to win	1.77

For those looking at alternative markets, the odds suggest a competitive match, with a draw priced at 3.58. This could be an interesting option for punters expecting a tight encounter.

Port Vale: Analysis & Recent Performance

Port Vale’s recent form has been inconsistent, with just one win in their last five outings. Their latest match resulted in a heavy 0-4 defeat against Stockport County in the EFL Trophy, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities. The team has conceded 10 goals in their last five games, averaging 2.00 goals conceded per match, while scoring only 0.80 goals on average.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Port Vale	Stockport County	0 – 4 (Loss)	EFL Trophy Final Stage	10 Feb, 2026
Port Vale	Burton	2 – 2 (Draw)	League One	7 Feb, 2026
Port Vale	AFC Wimbledon	0 – 1 (Loss)	League One	3 Feb, 2026
Leyton Orient	Port Vale	0 – 1 (Win)	League One	31 Jan, 2026
Port Vale	Exeter	1 – 3 (Loss)	League One	24 Jan, 2026

Recent Form:

• LDLWL

At home, Port Vale’s struggles continue with only one victory in their last five games at Vale Park, yielding a win ratio of 0.20. Their defence has failed to keep clean sheets, with only one in this period, and they’ve been outscored significantly. On the attacking front, Ruari Paton is a key player, albeit with only 2 goals this season. Despite their current home form, Port Vale will need to fortify their defensive structure and improve their scoring efficiency to challenge Bristol City.

Port Vale: Suspensions & Injuries

Port Vale enter this FA Cup clash against Bristol City with the advantage of having no current injuries or suspensions. This clean bill of health is a significant boost for manager Jon Brady, who can deploy his strongest lineup without any enforced absences. The availability of key players like Ben Amos in goal, and a solid defensive line featuring Ben Heneghan and Tyler Magloire, provides a stable foundation for their tactical setup.

The midfield and forward lines, including the likes of Jordan Shipley and Andre Gray, remain intact, allowing Port Vale to maintain their preferred formation and playing style. This continuity is crucial in a knockout competition where consistency and player understanding can be decisive. With no disruptions in the squad, Port Vale can focus on executing their game plan to perfection.

Having a full roster available not only enhances Port Vale’s on-field options but also allows for greater flexibility in tactical adjustments during the match. Jon Brady can make strategic substitutions without the constraints of limited personnel, potentially giving Port Vale an edge in managing the game’s dynamics.

From a betting perspective, the absence of injuries and suspensions means that Port Vale might be seen as a more stable bet compared to a team dealing with key players missing. Their full-strength squad could attract punters looking for reliability in their wagers, particularly in a high-stakes FA Cup encounter.

Port Vale: Key Players

Port Vale’s top scorer, Ruari Paton, with 2 goals to his name, will be pivotal in their attacking strategy against Bristol City. Paton, known for his clinical finishing and intelligent positioning, is expected to spearhead the attack and exploit any defensive vulnerabilities. His ability to find space and convert chances will be vital for Port Vale’s success in this FA Cup fixture.

In midfield, the creative force will likely come from a reliable playmaker who can link defence and attack seamlessly. This player’s vision and passing ability will be crucial in setting up scoring opportunities for Paton and other forwards. The midfield’s influence in controlling the game’s tempo could determine Port Vale’s tactical approach.

Defensively, the spotlight will be on a solid centre-back pairing tasked with maintaining a robust defensive line. Their aerial strength and tackling prowess will be essential in thwarting Bristol City’s attacking threats. The defence’s ability to stay organised and communicate effectively could prove decisive in keeping a clean sheet.

Port Vale’s tactical approach will likely revolve around leveraging their key players’ strengths in attack and defence. The interplay between the midfield and forwards, along with a disciplined defensive setup, will shape their strategy. This cohesive team effort will be necessary to navigate the challenges posed by Bristol City.

Expected lineup for Port Vale:

Port Vale: Tactics & Formation

Port Vale Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Expected 3-5-2
• Key Forward: Andre Gray
• Midfield Core: Jordan Shipley and Rhys Walters
• Defensive Concerns: Conceded four goals in the last home match
• Notable Strategy: Utilises wing-backs effectively to stretch play.

Port Vale’s 3-5-2 formation offers a balanced approach between attack and defence. The inclusion of Jordan Shipley and Rhys Walters in midfield provides both defensive cover and the ability to initiate attacks. The wing-backs, Jordan Gabriel and Liam Gordon, are crucial in stretching the play and supplying crosses to the forward duo.

Defensively, the trio of Ben Heneghan, Tyler Magloire, and Elijah Campbell need to tighten up after conceding four goals in their recent home defeat to Stockport County. This defensive unit must improve coordination to prevent similar lapses against Bristol City.

Offensively, Andre Gray is expected to lead the attack, supported by Dajaune Brown. Port Vale’s strategy often involves quick transitions and exploiting wide areas, leveraging the pace and crossing ability of their wing-backs.

Bristol City: Analysis & Recent Performance

Bristol City have been experiencing a mixed run of form, with their last five matches yielding two wins, two losses, and one draw. This recent stretch includes a significant 3-2 victory away at Hull, highlighting their ability to perform on the road. However, inconsistency remains an issue, as evidenced by a heavy 0-5 home defeat to Derby.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Hull	Bristol City	2 – 3 (Win)	Championship	7 Feb 2026
Bristol City	Derby	0 – 5 (Loss)	Championship	30 Jan 2026
Bristol City	Sheffield Wednesday	2 – 0 (Win)	Championship	24 Jan 2026
Ipswich	Bristol City	2 – 0 (Loss)	Championship	20 Jan 2026
Oxford	Bristol City	0 – 0 (Draw)	Championship	17 Jan 2026

Recent Form:

• WLWLD

In their last five games, Bristol City have managed to score an average of 1.00 goal per match while conceding 1.80, indicating room for improvement in both attacking and defensive phases. They have secured two clean sheets, showcasing sporadic defensive solidity. Away from home, their record mirrors their overall form, with two wins, two losses, and a draw in their last five away fixtures, maintaining a win ratio of 0.40. Emil Riis Jakobsen has been pivotal, contributing three goals, underlining his role as a key attacking threat.

Bristol City: Suspensions & Injuries

Bristol City head into the clash against Port Vale with the advantage of having no players unavailable due to injuries or suspensions. This clean bill of health means Gerhard Struber has the luxury of selecting from a full-strength squad, which could be pivotal in such an important FA Cup fixture. With all key players available, Bristol City should be able to field their preferred starting eleven, maximising their tactical options.

Having a complete squad available allows Bristol City to maintain their usual tactical setup without needing to make compromises due to player absences. This could provide them with a significant edge over Port Vale, who might not have the same depth or flexibility. The full squad availability ensures that Bristol City can implement their game plan effectively, focusing on their strengths in both midfield and attack.

The absence of injuries or suspensions also means that Bristol City can maintain their attacking momentum, with Emil Riis Jakobsen leading the forward line. His presence, supported by a solid midfield, could be crucial in breaking down Port Vale’s defence. Meanwhile, the defensive stability provided by players like George Tanner and Rob Dickie will be essential in keeping a clean sheet.

From a betting perspective, the fact that Bristol City have no unavailable players could influence the odds in their favour. Bettors might see this as a sign of strength and reliability, potentially making Bristol City the favourites in this matchup. The full squad availability could lead to a more confident and cohesive performance, increasing their chances of advancing in the FA Cup.

Bristol City: Key Players

Bristol City’s attacking prowess is spearheaded by their top scorer, Emil Riis Jakobsen, who has netted 3 goals this season. Jakobsen’s clinical finishing and ability to exploit defensive gaps make him a constant threat to Port Vale’s backline. His presence will be crucial in turning chances into goals, especially in a high-stakes FA Cup match.

In the midfield, Bristol City will rely heavily on their playmakers to control the tempo and supply the forwards with quality service. The midfield’s ability to transition swiftly from defence to attack could be a decisive factor in breaking down Port Vale’s defensive setup. Their tactical impact cannot be understated, as they will need to dominate possession and create opportunities.

Defensively, Bristol City’s backline must be resolute in handling Port Vale’s attacking threats. Solid performances from their defenders will be essential in maintaining a clean sheet and providing a platform for the midfielders and forwards to play with confidence. Their strength in aerial duels and tactical awareness will be key strengths in this encounter.

Bristol City: Tactics & Formation

Bristol City Tactical Breakdown:

• Previous Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Emil Riis Jakobsen
• Midfield Engine: Sam Morsy and Adam Randell
• Defensive Concerns: Conceded in three out of their last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on midfield control and aerial threat from set-pieces.

In their recent matches, Bristol City have primarily utilised a 4-2-3-1 formation, which provides a balance between defensive stability and attacking prowess. The midfield duo of Sam Morsy and Adam Randell plays a pivotal role in both breaking up opposition plays and initiating attacks, with Ross McCrorie also contributing to maintaining control in the middle of the park.

Emil Riis Jakobsen leads the line for Bristol City, supported by creative outlets such as Scott Twine and Tomi Horvat, who are tasked with providing the necessary service and creativity in the final third. This setup allows for dynamic attacking play, particularly effective in exploiting spaces left by opponents.

Defensively, Bristol City have struggled to keep clean sheets, conceding in most of their recent outings. The backline, anchored by experienced defenders like Rob Dickie and Robert Atkinson, needs to tighten up, especially when facing aerial threats. Set-pieces remain a crucial aspect of their strategy, with Dickie often a target during offensive set-plays.

Port Vale vs Bristol City: Head-to-Head Record

Port Vale and Bristol City have faced off 18 times, with Bristol City dominating the head-to-head record with 11 wins compared to Port Vale’s 4, and 3 matches ending in a draw. The last time these two met, Bristol City secured a 3-1 victory at home in a League One clash back in February 2015.

The last encounter at Vale Park saw Bristol City triumph with a 3-0 win in September 2014. Historically, Bristol City have been strong in this fixture, especially away from home, which could be a key factor in this FA Cup tie.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Bristol City	Port Vale	3 – 1	League One	2015-02-10
Port Vale	Bristol City	0 – 3	League One	2014-09-16
Bristol City	Port Vale	5 – 0	League One	2014-03-25
Port Vale	Bristol City	1 – 1	League One	2013-10-05
Port Vale	Bristol City	0 – 2	League One	2006-09-23