The FA Cup fourth round delivered drama, shocks and a reminder of why the competition still grips the imagination, with heavyweights advancing and lower-league sides writing fresh chapters of history.
The headline result from an EFL point of view came at Turf Moor, where League One Mansfield Town stunned Burnley 2-1. Nigel Clough’s side recovered from Josh Laurent’s opener to turn the tie around through Rhys Oates and a superb Louis Reed free kick, securing a first fifth-round appearance since 1974-75. It was a result that encapsulated the competition’s enduring appeal.
At the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City were made to work by League Two Salford City before eventually prevailing 2-0. An early own goal from Alfie Dorrington set the tone, but Pep Guardiola’s rotated side did not put the tie to bed until Marc Guehi netted his first goal since a £20m January switch from Crystal Palace.
Elsewhere, Arsenal eased past Wigan Athletic 4-0 to keep their trophy ambitions alive, while Leeds United needed penalties to edge out Birmingham City. Wolverhampton Wanderers survived tricky (atrocious) conditions at Grimsby Town, and Sunderland progressed with a narrow win at Oxford United. There was also success for Fulham and Southampton, ensuring a strong top-flight presence in the next round.
Liverpool also progressed, winning 3-0 in the all-Premier League tie that took place on Saturday evening at Anfield.
When is the FA Cup fifth-round draw?
The 2025-26 FA Cup fifth-round draw will take place on Monday, 16 February at approximately 18:35 GMT.
The draw will be conducted live on TNT Sports ahead of the remaining fourth-round tie between Macclesfield and Brentford. Supporters will also be able to follow proceedings via the BBC Sport website and app.
When will the fifth-round ties be played?
All fifth-round matches are scheduled to take place across the weekend commencing Saturday, 7 March.
As with previous rounds this season, there will be no replays. Any tie level after 90 minutes will go to extra time, and if required, penalties.
FA Cup Fifth Round Ball Numbers
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Liverpool
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Fulham
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Sunderland
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Southampton
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Wrexham
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Arsenal
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Chelsea
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West Ham United
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Mansfield Town
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Norwich City
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Port Vale or Bristol City
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Wolverhampton Wanderers
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Newcastle United
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Manchester City
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Macclesfield or Brentford
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Leeds United
With non-league Macclesfield still in contention and League One Mansfield flying the flag for the lower divisions, the potential for another memorable upset remains very real as the road to Wembley continues.
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