FA Cup 2026 Match Previews and Predictions

Delve into the excitement of the FA Cup 2026 with our detailed match previews. As teams across England battle for a coveted spot in the next round, we offer insights into the key fixtures, team forms, and potential outcomes for these thrilling encounters.

Wolves v Liverpool

Live on BBC One: Friday 20:00

Liverpool enters this FA Cup clash as strong favorites to secure a victory at Molineux. Arne Slot’s team has recently showcased a prolific goal-scoring ability, leading to expectations that they could be ahead both at half-time and full-time. Hugo Ekitike is also identified as a player who might score the opening goal.

Despite Liverpool's formidable form, Wolves, having recently defeated Aston Villa at home, are expected to approach this game with a determined mindset. While a win for Rob Edwards’ side in normal time is considered less likely, it's not entirely ruled out, and a draw, which would necessitate extra-time, remains a notable possibility.

Mansfield Town v Arsenal

Live on TNT Sports 1: Saturday 12:15

Mansfield Town has already made headlines in this FA Cup campaign by eliminating Sheffield United and Burnley. However, overcoming Arsenal in this Saturday lunchtime fixture would represent an even greater upset. Arsenal, a Gunners side with ambitions of a quadruple, are heavily favored to progress.

A clean sheet for Mikel Arteta’s team is widely anticipated, although Mansfield could potentially score a consolation goal. A 3-0 victory for Arsenal is considered a likely scoreline, with a 4-1 success also highlighted as a realistic possibility.

Wrexham v Chelsea

Live on BBC One: Saturday 17:45

This weekend presents another opportunity for Wrexham to write a memorable chapter in their FA Cup journey as the Red Dragons host Chelsea. While Wrexham pulling off an upset against their Premier League opponents would be a significant story, Chelsea are generally expected to win, though it may not be an straightforward assignment.

A draw at the end of normal time is considered a strong possibility. Both teams are expected to find the net, with a 2-2 draw specifically mentioned as a potential intriguing outcome.

Newcastle Utd v Man City

Live on TNT Sports 1: Saturday 20:00

Newcastle and Manchester City are set to face each other for the fifth time this season. Pep Guardiola’s side, still in contention for a quadruple, is expected to clinch a victory at St James’ Park, similar to their recent Carabao Cup triumph there. A scenario where Manchester City wins and both teams score is also considered likely.

Eddie Howe’s Newcastle side has experienced a relatively challenging season. A victory for the Tyneside team or a draw leading to extra time are seen as less probable results.

Fulham v Southampton

Live on TNT Sports 2: Sunday 12:00

Fulham, aiming for their first-ever FA Cup triumph, are favored to advance past Southampton. While Southampton is currently performing well in the Championship, securing an away victory against a Premier League side like Fulham would be a considerable challenge.

A victory for Marco Silva’s side, with both teams managing to score, is considered a strong prediction. A 3-2 success for the London team has also been mentioned as a possible high-scoring outcome.

Leeds United v Norwich City

Live on TNT Sports 1: Sunday 16:30

Daniel Farke will face his former club as Leeds United are strong favorites to defeat Norwich City on Sunday. The Canaries, who are performing well under Philippe Clement, are considered less likely to win, but an upset or their progression in the tie is not entirely ruled out.

This match is anticipated to be a high-scoring affair, with over 3.5 goals expected. A draw at full-time is also considered a possibility, potentially leading to extra-time, with Norwich advancing in some form also being mentioned.

West Ham United v Brentford

Live on TNT Sports 1: Monday 19:30

In this Monday night FA Cup clash, Brentford are considered favorites to win against a West Ham side that might be more preoccupied with their league form. However, Nuno Espirito Santo’s team is showing gradual improvement and could secure the victory.

This tie has the potential to extend into extra-time, with a draw at the end of ninety minutes being a distinct possibility. Igor Thiago is also highlighted as a potential goal-scorer during regular time.