3 Key Battles That Could Decide the FA Cup Semi Final Between Man Utd & Tottenham on Saturday

Very little could separate two very evenly matched teams during this Saturday's FA Cup semi final. 

Tottenham face off with Manchester United for a place in the final, but what is sure to be closely contested match this weekend stands in their way. 

The result could come down to one standout performance, one player who steps up and inspires his team to victory. 

Here are three key battles which could determine who goes through to the final:

3. Harry Kane vs David de Gea

The Premier League's best goalkeeper up against the best striker - well, at least according to the PFA Team of the Year. 

It's difficult to argue with PFA's selections. No goalkeeper has kept more Premier League clean sheets this season than David de Gea, and he has made more saves than other 'keeper in the top six. 

Records have been tumbling this season in the wake of another terrific year for Harry Kane. While the individual accolades continue to rack up, David de Gea could stand in the way of Kane winning his first piece of silverware with Spurs. 

2. Mousa Dembele vs Paul Pogba

Paul Pogba is capable of deciding matches with his ability. He inspired the Red Devils' comeback in the Manchester Derby, outmanoeuvring his opponents in midfield and netting twice to win the game. 

But last time Spurs and United met, Mousa Dembele played Paul Pogba off the park. Dembele dominated the midfield with his clever passes, scintillating runs, and raw physicality. Meanwhile, Pogba was hooked off the pitch within after hour following a poor display. 

The game was decided in midfield in Spurs' 2-0 win over United in January. In better form himself, Pogba could this time prove a more worthy opponent for Dembele in the middle of the park.

1. Romelu Lukaku vs Jan Vertonghen

While not quite as prolific has Harry Kane, Romelu Lukaku can chalk up his first season in Man United colours as a success. 16 is his tally in the Premier League this term, but he also has five goals in the FA Cup - the most of any player still in the competition. 

The ever reliable Jan Vertonghen, who will be buoyed by his inclusion in the PFA Team of the Year, will feel he is more than up to challenge to battle with the imposing Lukaku. 

Spurs have lost their last two games at home, but before then they enjoyed a run of 18 games at Wembley without defeat. The Tottenham defence will not be easy to break down, but an inform Lukaku will feel up to the task.