The most famous club cup competition in world football enjoys a proud and rich history, but this year it’s had something of a makeover, with a trio of new rules introduced for the final three rounds.
Here’s what you need to be aware of before tomorrow’s clash at the Riverside Stadium…
A new name
Pep Guardiola’s squad face Boro in what has traditionally been known as the FA Cup sixth round, but that is no more.
From here on out the last eight will be referred to as the quarter-final stage.
You only get one shot
Come Saturday afternoon we will know for certain whether the Blues have booked their place in the last four, with quarter-final replays also consigned to FA Cup history.
This weekend’s contest must produce a winner, so if the scores are level after 90 minutes, we’ll head to extra-time and if the two sides still can’t be separated then the game will be settled with the drama of penalties.
Reinforcements
The final rule change is perhaps the most significant.
Following in the footsteps of the Copa America, an extra substitute will be available to all teams from the quarter-final through to the showpiece game at Wembley in May.
Managers will have the opportunity to make four changes, but only if the game goes to extra-time.
So, should Pep have utilised the traditional three sub allowance during 90 minutes, he will have the opportunity to make another replacement in the additional 30 minute period.
Similarly, if the manager only calls on two players from the bench in normal time, he will have two subs available in extra-time.
