The fourth-round draw for the FA Cup has set up some thrilling fixtures, promising more drama as the competition progresses. Following an eventful third round, the next stage sees intriguing matchups featuring Premier League giants, lower-league hopefuls, and potential Cinderella stories.
Highlights from the Third Round
- Premier League sides Fulham and Everton secured comfortable victories over lower-league opposition, while Aston Villa pulled off an impressive comeback win against West Ham in Graham Potter’s managerial debut.
- Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City, Leicester City, Bournemouth, and Brighton delivered dominant performances with high-scoring victories.
- Coventry City and Doncaster Rovers advanced after penalty shootouts, with Championship side Plymouth Argyle stunning Brentford in one of the shocks of the round.
- Non-League side Tamworth valiantly forced Tottenham into extra time before ultimately losing 3-0, while Newcastle secured a 3-1 win over Bromley.
- The standout tie saw Manchester United eliminate Arsenal on penalties at the Emirates after a tense 1-1 draw.
Key Fixtures in the Fourth Round
- Manchester United vs. Leicester City:
This tie marks a dramatic return to Old Trafford for Ruud van Nistelrooy, now manager of Leicester City, who will face his former club in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter. - Aston Villa vs. Tottenham:
Labelled as the “tie of the round,” this clash pits two ambitious Premier League sides against each other. Villa will look to continue their strong form under new management, while Spurs aim to avoid another FA Cup disappointment. - Brighton vs. Chelsea:
Both sides have been in excellent form, and this encounter at the Amex Stadium will be a tough test for Chelsea as they aim to progress in the competition. - Plymouth Argyle vs. Liverpool:
After their shock win over Brentford, Plymouth have been rewarded with a home tie against Premier League leaders Liverpool. This David-vs-Goliath matchup has the potential to become a classic cup upset. - Doncaster Rovers vs. Crystal Palace:
Doncaster will welcome the Premier League side to the Eco-Power Stadium in hopes of pulling off an upset and advancing further in the competition.
Full Fourth Round Draw
- Man United vs. Leicester City
- Leeds United vs. Millwall/Dagenham & Redbridge
- Brighton vs. Chelsea
- Preston/Charlton vs. Wycombe Wanderers
- Exeter City vs. Nottingham Forest
- Coventry City vs. Ipswich Town
- Blackburn Rovers vs. Wolves
- Mansfield Town/Wigan Athletic vs. Fulham
- Birmingham City vs. Newcastle United
- Plymouth Argyle vs. Liverpool
- Everton vs. Bournemouth
- Aston Villa vs. Tottenham
- Southampton/Swansea vs. Burnley
- Leyton Orient/Derby vs. Manchester City
- Doncaster Rovers vs. Crystal Palace
- Stoke City vs. Cardiff City
Narratives to Watch
- Cinderella Stories: Plymouth Argyle and Doncaster Rovers will relish their underdog roles against Premier League opposition. Their performances will be closely watched as potential giant-killers.
- Managerial Subplots: Ruud van Nistelrooy’s Old Trafford return adds a fascinating layer of intrigue to Leicester’s tie against Manchester United.
- Premier League Showdowns: Matches like Aston Villa vs. Tottenham and Brighton vs. Chelsea provide opportunities for big teams to knock each other out early in the competition.
The fourth round promises excitement, surprises, and high-quality football as the FA Cup continues to deliver memorable moments.