Depending on results elsewhere, the loser of this contest on Wednesday at the Britannia Stadium could find themselves in the Premier League relegation zone.
The two teams are locked on 13 points from as many matches, with Stoke in 16th, one place above the Bluebirds due to a superior goal difference.
The Potters will be without German centre-back Robert Huth, who recently underwent surgery to mend a knee problem. In his place, Spanish youngster Marc Muniesa has been tipped to deputise.
Meanwhile, veteran attacker Craig Bellamy could be included for Cardiff, having spent the last few matches as a substitute.
Stoke are unbeaten in their last six matches against their Welsh opponents, having won four and drawn two.
Recent form
Stoke: DLDDWL
Cardiff: LDWLDL
Possible starting lineups
Stoke: Begovic; Cameron, Shawcross, Muniesa, Pieters; Walters, Whelan, Nzonzi, Adam, Assaidi; Crouch
Cardiff: Marshall; Taylor, Caulker, Turner, Theophile-Catherine; Whittingham, Medel, Kim, Mutch, Bellamy; Campbell
Sports Mole says: 1-1
Liam Apicella
