Bolton vs Luton Town prediction 16.01.2024

• Competition: FA Cup, 1/32 &— Finals, Replay match
• Date: Tuesday, 16th January 2024
• Kickoff: 19:45 UK / 20:45 CET
• Venue: Toughsheet Community Stadium (Bolton)

On Tuesday night, Bolton, a League One team, will host Luton, a Premier League team, in the FA Cup 1/32 Finals replay match.

Bolton, once a stable team in the Premier League, experienced their all-time low in the 2020/21 season when they were relegated to League Two. However, they managed to bounce back promptly in the following season and are now striving to make it back to the Championship. They almost achieved this last year, reaching the playoffs, only to be knocked out by Barnsley in the Semi-Finals. This season, Bolton’s performance has significantly improved and they are considered by many to be the likely candidate to secure an immediate return. Currently, they stand at 3rd place with 51 points, just two points shy of the top spot, and they still have three games in hand.

Luton Town, a team that played in the National League (the fifth tier of English football) just about ten years ago, is clearly making a mark. They secured their place in the Premier League last year by winning the Championship playoffs and are now focused on somehow maintaining their survival this season. Currently, they are positioned 18th, the same as Everton in terms of points, who are in the safe zone.

Bolton vs Luton Town pick: Under 2.5 goals

The initial match at Kenilworth Road in Luton concluded with a 0-0 draw. Despite superior opportunities, Luton Town was unable to capitalize and score, owing to Bolton’s commendable defense. However, Bolton’s recent track record of four clean sheets in the past five games indicates that their defensive prowess should not come as a shock. The Trotters have historically been strong defensively, and their latest performances have been nothing short of outstanding. This gives reason for optimism as they are likely to employ a defensive strategy against a Premier League team.

Luton struggled with their offense on the road throughout the season, only managing to score 11 goals in all competitions. Despite some recent improvements, their reliability is questionable due to concerns that key players may be rested, as the team’s focus is on the Premier League. This lack of trust is furthered by their failure to score at home against Bolton, even with their best squad. Therefore, we cannot confidently rely on their away game offense.

Given the nature of the first game and other factors, we anticipate a game heavily focused on defense in this FA Cup match. We think betting on under 2.5 goals is the most sensible choice.