FA Cup Magic: Underdogs, Giants & Dream Ties Set for March Glory
The Emirates FA Cup fifth round draw on Monday sent shockwaves through English football, as both fairy-tale stories and blockbuster ties were confirmed for the weekend of March 7 & 8, 2026. Not only does it promise high-stakes drama, but it also sets the stage for potential giant-killing moments.
At the heart of the excitement is League One’s Mansfield Town, the spirited outfit that stunned Premier League Burnley to reach the last 16 for the first time in over half a century. As a result, they earned a mouthwatering home tie against Arsenal, one of the competition’s staunchest gladiators.
Meanwhile, the One Call Stadium will be buzzing as the Stags chase FA Cup glory against Mikel Arteta’s men — a true David vs Goliath story.
In addition, another captivating narrative surrounds Wrexham. The Championship side, now a fixture in Cup folklore with wins over Ipswich Town, will host Chelsea in a tie loaded with drama and history.
With Hollywood co-owners and fervent fans packing the Racecourse Ground, this clash promises to be one of the weekend’s biggest talking points, ensuring all eyes will be on North Wales.
| Home Team | Away Team |
|---|---|
| Fulham | Southampton |
| Port Vale / Bristol City | Sunderland |
| Newcastle United | Manchester City |
| Leeds United | Norwich City |
| Mansfield Town | Arsenal |
| Wolverhampton Wanderers | Liverpool |
| Wrexham | Chelsea |
| West Ham United | Brentford |
Moreover, it isn’t all about the underdogs, as traditional heavyweights are set for their own high-stakes battles.
For instance, Newcastle United will face Manchester City at St James’ Park in a rematch of recent domestic cup warfare, while simultaneously, Wolves play host to Liverpool in an all–Premier League showdown that pits attacking flair against disciplined defence.
Meanwhile, Fulham and Southampton lock horns in an intriguing all–top-flight derby, and Leeds United and Norwich City meet in a tie carrying extra narrative after Leeds’ gritty fourth-round penalty win.
As for Sunderland, they await the winner of Port Vale or Bristol City, a tie still undecided due to a weather-induced postponement. Finally, West Ham United will take on Brentford at the London Stadium, coming off a tight win over Macclesfield.
As the draw underlines, the FA Cup continues to blend underdog dreams with elite competition a weekend where anything can happen and legends can be born.
