Key Points
- The Emirates FA Cup fifth round draw for the 2025-26 season has been completed, featuring eight ties scheduled for the weekend of 7-8 March 2026.
- Standout matches include Newcastle United versus Manchester City, Wrexham versus Chelsea, and Wolverhampton Wanderers versus Liverpool.
- One tie remains pending: Port Vale or Bristol City against Sunderland, and West Ham United against Macclesfield or Brentford, following the recent fourth round match where Brentford defeated Macclesfield 1-0.
- Winning clubs advance to the quarter-finals and receive £238,500 from the prize fund.
London (Liverpool Standard) February 17, 2026 – The Emirates FA Cup fifth round draw for the 2025-26 season unfolded ahead of the final fourth round fixture, setting the stage for high-stakes clashes among Premier League heavyweights and surprise packages. Eight ties were confirmed, blending top-flight rivalries with potential upsets as clubs vie for quarter-final spots.
The draw, conducted by former players Joe Cole and Karen Carney, highlights intriguing matchups such as Fulham against Southampton, Newcastle United hosting Manchester City, and Leeds United facing Norwich City. Liverpool will travel to face Wolverhampton Wanderers, while Wrexham welcomes Chelsea in a headline-grabbing encounter.
What Are the Full Fifth Round Fixtures?
The official ties, as announced by the Football Association, comprise Fulham v Southampton, Port Vale or Bristol City v Sunderland, Newcastle United v Manchester City, Leeds United v Norwich City, Mansfield Town v Arsenal, Wolverhampton Wanderers v Liverpool, Wrexham v Chelsea, and West Ham United v Brentford. Final schedules will be set after consultations with clubs, broadcasters, and authorities.
According to AS USA, the draw occurred prior to Brentford’s narrow 1-0 victory over Macclesfield in the fourth round, confirming their progression. Liverpool FC shared confirmation of their Wolves matchup on social media, underscoring the competitive landscape.
Which Matches Stand Out in the Draw?
Key narratives emerge in several fixtures, including Leeds United manager Daniel Farke’s reunion with former club Norwich City, as noted by AS USA. Wrexham’s home tie against Chelsea pits the headline-grabbing side against an inconsistent Premier League outfit, promising a tense atmosphere in Wales.
What Makes Wrexham vs Chelsea a Highlight?
AS USA highlighted the matchup as a potential spectacle, with Wrexham’s owners avoiding a trip to London while hosting the Blues, who face a stern test from the National League North side that ousted higher opposition earlier. Newcastle United v Manchester City adds further intrigue among elite clubs.
What Happens Next in the FA Cup?
Matches are slated for 7-8 March 2026, with victors earning £238,500 and advancing to quarter-finals on 4 April, per the FA’s schedule. The tournament culminates at Wembley on 16 May 2026, offering the winners a UEFA Europa League place for 2026-27.
Defending champions Crystal Palace, who triumphed over Manchester City last season, exited in the third round to Macclesfield, paving the way for fresh contenders as reported across official FA channels and Wikipedia’s tournament overview.
