Match Preview | Wigan Athletic vs Hemel Hempstead Town

FA Cup Round 1 is here, and Wigan Athletic are set to kick off their campaign at The Brick Community Stadium against Hemel Hempstead Town. The Latics will be looking to make a strong start in this historic competition, while Hemel Hempstead will hope to pull off an early upset. In this preview, we’ll cover team news, recent form, and what to expect as these two sides clash in the first round of the FA Cup.

Wigan Athletic: 13th in EFL League One

The latics form has narrowly improved within the past couple of weeks, slim margin win against Port Vale, and then followed by a well fought point away at Mansfield but it’s fair to say supporters are still far from impressed . Going into Saturday, Wigan’s mindset should solely be focused on the clubs rich history within the competition and how much it would mean for the fans to experience some sort of cup run.

Hemel Hempstead Town: 4th in Enterprise National League South

It’s been quite the start for Hemel Hempstead in the National League South, under the management of Lee Allinson, & currently sat 4th in the table, it’s fair to say they are ambitious to get promoted to the National League. Going into Saturday they will be looking to cause a mighty upset, and based on this competition’s rich history and the side’s form it’s definitely possible.

Predicted Lineup – Wigan

As you can see we expect plenty of change this weekend, starting with the goalie, I feel that despite Sam Tickle’s heavy presence and selection I see Toby Savin getting an opportunity sooner rather than later. In defence, I’m hoping to see a start for James Carragher amidst his very brief return versus Mansfield, and as for Kerr and Fox it should be business as usual. Cooper has impressed recently so his spot should be safe, as for Brenan the young sensation deserves the game time. I’m hopeful that Raphael will also get an outing, his sharp pace is superb and could be useful. And finally the front two I’m going with is Asamoah & Mullin.

Injuries & Suspensions

Baba Adeeko | (Hamstring injury) – Expected to be out of action for at least a few weeks.

Tyrese Francois | (muscle injury) – Also stated by Lowe, that he is not far off a return. His return will really boost that squad depth.

Ryan Trevitt | (Thigh Injury) – Only recently had surgery, expected to face a lengthy spell on the side lines. Honestly a massive loss.

Dara Costelloe | (suspended)

Score Predictions

Our human score predictions are just for fun and based on personal opinions, recent form, and match context. They are not expert advice and should never be used for things like betting or making financial decisions. For more details, please visit our disclaimer.

Curtis’ Prediction: Wigan Athletic 2-1 Hemel Hempstead

💭“we’ve got the quality to get the job done, but we can’t afford to sit back. Hemel will be up for it and throw everything at us.”

Charlie’s Prediction: Wigan Athletic 1-0 Hemel Hempstead

💭“Whilst the thought of an upset would not surprise me, we’ve had some fantastic runs in this competition over the years, you just have to look at 2013, we should be up for this and just edge it. “

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Artificial Intelligence (AI) Predictions

Artificial Intelligence (AI) predictions use data and algorithms to forecast football match outcomes based on team form, stats, and other relevant factors. While we aim for these predictions to be as accurate as possible, they are not guaranteed and should not be relied upon to make decisions, including betting. For more information, please refer to our disclaimer.

ChatGPT:Wigan Athletic 2-0 Hemel Hempstead

💭 “For the clash between Wigan Athletic and Hemel Hempstead Town in the FA Cup first round, I’m backing Wigan to win at home. They’re a League One side, have the home-advantage and the stronger squad on paper. Hemel Hempstead have momentum and form in the National League South, so they’ll likely make it competitive, but I expect the Latics to manage the game, tighten up defensively and win maybe by 2-0.”

Grok: Wigan Athletic 3-0 Hemel Hempstead

💭 “In the Emirates FA Cup first-round clash at the Brick Community Stadium on November 1, 2025, Wigan Athletic, the 2013 winners and a solid League One outfit currently grinding through a competitive season, face a classic giant-killing opportunity against National League South’s sixth-placed Hemel Hempstead Town, who have battled through three qualifying rounds with gritty wins over Bishop’s Stortford, Hereford (after a replay), and Yeovil. While Hemel’s momentum and underdog spirit—fueled by boss Lee Allinson’s “unbelievable” excitement—could spark early fireworks, Wigan’s superior quality, home advantage, and depth should prevail in a professional display, leading to a comfortable 3-0 victory for the Latics, though not without Hemel testing them in the opening exchanges before tiring in the second half.”

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