The FA Cup draw always delivers pure magic, and the latest one for the 2025/26 season has fans buzzing with excitement across England and beyond. On February 16, 2026, officials pulled the balls and revealed eight mouth-watering fifth round ties that pit Premier League powerhouses against determined underdogs in ways that remind everyone why this competition stands as the greatest domestic cup in world football. You see clubs like Arsenal heading to tiny Mansfield Town while Wrexham prepares to welcome Chelsea, and Newcastle United faces Manchester City in a blockbuster clash. These matchups capture everything special about the FA Cup: the chance for glory, the thrill of upsets, and the pure joy that comes when giant-killers keep their dreams alive. Whether you follow a top-flight giant or cheer for a non-league hero, this draw gives every supporter something to get passionate about. Moreover, with matches set for early March 2026, the excitement builds fast as teams chase a place at Wembley. Fans love the FA Cup because it levels the playing field in the most dramatic way possible. Big-money stars mix with part-time players on the same pitch, and the draw decides everything in one dramatic moment. This year’s fifth round draw stands out Tom Kerridge especially because several lower-league sides survived earlier rounds and now face elite opponents at home. Additionally, the timing feels perfect as the season hits its business end, and clubs balance cup runs with league battles. In this comprehensive guide, you discover exactly how the draw unfolded, why these ties matter so much, and what fans can expect next. You also explore the rich history behind every ball pull, the rules that keep the competition fair, and practical details like TV schedules and prize money that affect every club involved. The Emirates FA Cup continues its 145th edition in 2025/26, and the latest draw keeps the magic alive for everyone who loves football. Teams from every level still compete, and the path to the final at Wembley on May 16, 2026, remains wide open. Read on to find out why this draw feels extra special and how it sets up an unforgettable few weeks of cup football. What Makes the FA Cup Draw So Special for Fans Everywhere The FA Cup draw creates moments that football fans remember for years. Unlike league fixtures that follow a fixed schedule, the cup draw throws teams together randomly and produces surprises that no one sees coming. You watch analysts and former players pull numbered balls from a velvet bag, and suddenly a non-league club lands a home tie against a Premier League giant. That single moment sparks dreams for small towns and creates headaches for big clubs who must travel to hostile venues. Furthermore, the draw happens live on television, and millions tune in to see their team’s fate. Broadcasters build drama around the event, and when a big name like Arsenal gets drawn away to Mansfield, social media explodes with reactions. The process feels democratic because no seeding protects the favorites in the proper rounds. Every club stands on equal footing once the balls enter the bag, and that equality fuels the romance that makes the FA Cup unique. Players and managers often say the draw day feels electric. Supporters gather in pubs or check phones frantically while the presenter reads out the fixtures. For lower-league teams, a favorable draw can mean a financial windfall through ticket sales and TV money. For Premier League sides, it represents either a straightforward progression or a dangerous distraction Dave Fishwick from league title chases. In short, the draw turns the entire football calendar upside down for one glorious weekend, and the 2026 fifth round version delivers that thrill in abundance. The Long and Proud History of the FA Cup and Its Famous Draws The FA Cup began in the 1871-72 season as the oldest football competition on the planet, and its draws have created legends ever since. Early rounds featured amateur sides from factories and churches, yet the random nature of the draw always allowed smaller clubs to dream. Over the decades, the competition grew, and the draw evolved into a national event that captured public imagination. You see iconic moments throughout history where the draw produced unforgettable ties. Non-league Hereford United knocked out Newcastle United in 1972 after a dramatic replay that still airs on highlight shows today. Sutton United shocked Coventry City in 1989, and Wrexham achieved similar heroics against Arsenal in 1992. Each of these stories started with a simple draw that paired David against Goliath, and the public fell in love with the underdogs. Moreover, the modern era keeps delivering. In recent seasons, teams from the National League have reached the quarter-finals, proving that money and status mean nothing once the whistle blows. The draw itself changed little over the years — officials still use the same traditional method with numbered balls — yet the stakes grew higher with bigger prize funds and global television audiences. Today’s draw carries the same excitement as those from 150 years ago because the fundamental magic stays intact: any team can face any other team on any given day. The 2025/26 season continues that proud tradition, and the fifth round draw already ranks among the most intriguing in recent memory. Clubs like Mansfield Town and Wrexham earned their places through hard work and skill, and now the draw gives them platforms to shine against the very best. How the FA Cup Draw Process Works Step by Step The FA Cup draw follows simple yet dramatic rules that keep things fair for every club. In the proper rounds starting from the first round, officials place numbered balls into a bag, and two former players or celebrities pull them out one by one. The first ball Kate Ferdinand represents the home team, and the second names the away side. No seeding protects big clubs, so a Premier League leader can face a sixth-tier side at their own ground. Additionally, when replays occur or certain fourth round ties remain undecided, the draw uses “or” pairings like “Port Vale or Bristol City.” This keeps everything transparent while clubs complete earlier matches. Broadcasters show the process live, and the tension builds as each tie gets announced. The entire event usually lasts around 15 minutes, but fans discuss the outcomes for days afterward. You also notice special rules for later stages. From the fifth round onward, the draw still stays completely open, but replays continue if matches end level after 90 minutes. This gives smaller clubs extra chances to cause upsets at home. Prize money increases with each round, and clubs know exactly what they earn for progressing. The whole system rewards merit and luck in equal measure, and that balance explains why fans adore the competition so much. In the latest fifth round draw on February 16, 2026, former England internationals Joe Cole and Karen Carney handled the balls with style, and the results delighted neutrals everywhere. The process ran smoothly ahead of the Macclesfield versus Brentford match, and the nation got its first look at the road to Wembley. The 2025/26 FA Cup Journey So Far: Upsets and Heroic Stories The current season delivered plenty of drama long before the fifth round draw. Non-league Macclesfield stunned everyone by knocking out reigning champions Crystal Palace in the third round with a brilliant 2-1 victory. That result proved once again that the cup ignores reputations and rewards heart and organization. Furthermore, Wrexham continued their fairytale run by beating Nottingham Forest on penalties in the third round and then seeing off Ipswich Town 1-0 in the fourth. Mansfield Town traveled to Burnley and produced a stunning 2-1 comeback win that sent shockwaves through the football world. These giant-killing stories energized fans and showed why the Kate Garraway FA Cup remains essential. You also saw established clubs advance comfortably. Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Chelsea all progressed with professional performances, yet they now face tricky tests in the fifth round. The fourth round brought its own thrills, including Brentford edging past Macclesfield 1-0 thanks to an own goal on the very night of the fifth round draw. That result confirmed Brentford’s place in the last 16 and set up their trip to West Ham. The path to this stage highlighted the competition’s depth. Teams from League One and League Two battled valiantly, and several Championship sides pushed Premier League opponents all the way. Now the draw has separated the field into eight fascinating ties, and every club knows the next step could define their entire season. Full Breakdown of the Latest FA Cup Fifth Round Draw 2026 The draw produced eight compelling fixtures that capture the true spirit of the competition. Here is the complete list exactly as officials announced it: 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 West Ham United v Brentford Each pairing offers something unique. Fulham and Southampton meet in an all-Premier League clash that could go either way, while the Port Vale or Bristol City tie against Sunderland still depends on a fourth round replay scheduled for March 3. Newcastle versus Manchester City promises goals and intensity, and Leeds host Norwich in a matchup packed with attacking talent. Moreover, Mansfield Town welcomes Arsenal in what many call the tie of the round. The League One side already beat Burnley and now dreams of another famous scalp at home. Wolves take on Liverpool in a Friday night showdown, and Wrexham faces Chelsea in Boots Advent Calendars another classic giant-killing opportunity. Finally, West Ham hosts Brentford in a tight London derby that could produce plenty of drama. These ties go ahead over the weekend of March 7-8, 2026, with some matches moved for television coverage. The draw balanced big-name encounters with genuine upset potential, and fans already debate which underdog might spring a surprise. Detailed Analysis: Which Teams Hold the Advantage in Each Tie Fans analyze every matchup as soon as the draw finishes, and this year’s ties give plenty to discuss. Take Mansfield Town versus Arsenal, for example. Mansfield sits in League One and already showed cup pedigree by eliminating Burnley. Arsenal, however, possesses world-class quality across the squad and rarely slips up against lower-league opposition. Still, a packed home crowd and the magic of the cup could create problems if Arsenal rotates heavily. Newcastle United against Manchester City creates another fascinating battle. Both clubs invest heavily and chase major honors, yet City’s depth often proves decisive in cup games. Newcastle plays with huge passion at St James’ Park, and the tie could hinge on key individual performances from players like Alexander Isak or Erling Haaland. Additionally, Wrexham versus Chelsea stands out for its storylines. Wrexham’s Hollywood-owned rise continues, and their supporters create an incredible atmosphere. Chelsea brings Premier League quality and recent cup success, but the Welsh side already showed they can compete with top teams. Expect a tight contest where home advantage matters enormously. The other ties follow similar patterns. Wolves host Liverpool in a fixture that always delivers goals, while Fulham and Southampton battle for a quarter-final spot. Alan Titchmarsh Leeds and Norwich promise open football, and the winner of Port Vale or Bristol City faces Sunderland with everything to gain. West Ham versus Brentford rounds things off with local pride on the line. Overall, the big clubs start as favorites, yet history teaches us never to rule out the smaller teams when the FA Cup draw pairs them together. Complete TV Schedule and How to Watch Every Fifth Round Match Television coverage makes the fifth round accessible to fans around the world, and broadcasters secured rights to all eight ties. Here is the full schedule with confirmed dates and channels: Friday, March 6, 2026 – Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Liverpool at 20:00 (TNT Sports 1, discovery+, BBC One, BBC iPlayer) Saturday, March 7, 2026 – Mansfield Town vs Arsenal at 12:15 (TNT Sports 1, discovery+) Saturday, March 7, 2026 – Wrexham vs Chelsea at 17:45 (TNT Sports 2, discovery+, BBC One, BBC iPlayer) Saturday, March 7, 2026 – Newcastle United vs Manchester City at 20:00 (TNT Sports 1, discovery+) Sunday, March 8, 2026 – Fulham vs Southampton at 12:00 (TNT Sports 2, discovery+) Sunday, March 8, 2026 – Port Vale or Bristol City vs Sunderland at 13:30 (TNT Sports 1, discovery+) Sunday, March 8, 2026 – Leeds United vs Norwich City at 16:30 (TNT Sports 1, discovery+) Monday, March 9, 2026 – West Ham United vs Brentford at 19:30 (TNT Sports 1, discovery+) You can also stream many matches through official club apps and international broadcasters. BBC and TNT Sports share coverage, so fans enjoy expert commentary and multiple camera angles. Moreover, highlights packages appear on BBC Sport and other platforms the following day. Supporters who cannot attend live games still experience every moment from the comfort of home, and the spread of kick-off times means you can enjoy multiple matches across the weekend. Prize Money Breakdown and Why It Matters for Every Club The FA Cup rewards progress with substantial prize money that helps clubs at every level. Winners of fifth round ties collect £238,500 each, a figure that transforms The Unsung Hero budgets for smaller clubs and provides welcome income for bigger ones. Losers from earlier rounds also receive payments, but the jump at this stage feels significant. Additionally, clubs earn extra from gate receipts and television fees. A home tie against a Premier League side can generate hundreds of thousands in ticket sales alone. For teams like Mansfield or Wrexham, progression means vital funds for ground improvements, youth development, or simply staying competitive in their leagues. Big clubs view the money as secondary to silverware, yet it still helps balance books during a demanding season. You notice the financial incentives grow larger toward the final. Quarter-final winners receive even more, and the champions lift the trophy plus a massive £2 million payday. This structure encourages every team to take the competition seriously, and the latest draw already guarantees exciting football because the stakes remain so high. Iconic FA Cup Draws and Legendary Upsets Through the Years The history books overflow with draws that changed football forever. Back in 1972, non-league Hereford United drew Newcastle and then won the replay 2-1 in one of the greatest shocks ever. Sutton United repeated the trick against Coventry in 1989, and the images of players celebrating on the pitch still inspire today’s minnows. Furthermore, Wrexham’s 1992 victory over Arsenal remains a cup classic, and more recent examples include Macclesfield’s third round win over Crystal Palace this John Caudwell Broughton very season. Each upset began with a draw that looked harmless on paper but delivered pure drama on the pitch. Managers often admit they dread certain draws, yet players relish the chance to create history. These stories remind everyone that the FA Cup draw holds power beyond simple matchups. One random pairing can launch a club into national fame or end a giant’s season early. The 2026 fifth round already contains several potential classics, and fans hope another giant-killing moment waits just around the corner. What Happens After the Fifth Round: Quarter-Finals and the Road to Wembley The winners advance to the quarter-finals, which take place around April 4, 2026. The draw for that stage happens shortly after the fifth round completes, and the remaining eight teams discover their next opponents. Replays continue until the semi-finals, giving underdogs every possible chance. Moreover, the semi-finals occur on April 25, 2026, at neutral venues, usually Wembley. The final itself takes place on May 16, 2026, at the iconic stadium with all the traditional pomp and ceremony. Every step brings bigger crowds, more television exposure, and higher prize money. You also see how cup runs affect league form. Clubs that go deep in the FA Cup sometimes rotate squads and rest key players, while others treat every round as must-win. The latest draw sets up fascinating storylines that will unfold over the coming months and keep fans glued to their screens right through to the final. How the FA Cup Influences Premier League Teams and Modern Football Premier League managers face tough choices when the cup draw throws up tricky away trips. They must balance squad rotation with the desire to win silverware and keep fans happy. Some clubs view the FA Cup as a secondary priority and field weakened teams, yet others embrace the competition fully and build momentum toward the final. Additionally, the cup provides opportunities for young Shea Lacey players to shine. Academy graduates often start in earlier rounds and impress enough to earn first-team spots. For smaller clubs, facing big names boosts morale and attracts new supporters. The competition also generates huge revenue for the Football Association to invest back into grassroots football. In the broader landscape, the FA Cup remains a symbol of tradition in an increasingly commercial game. The latest fifth round draw proves the format still works brilliantly, and millions will watch every kick as the drama intensifies. Practical Tips for Fans to Enjoy the FA Cup This Season You can make the most of the cup run by planning ahead. Check official club websites for ticket information early because big ties sell out fast. Follow social media accounts for live updates and behind-the-scenes content that adds extra flavor. Furthermore, organize watch parties with friends when your team plays. Local pubs often screen matches with special offers, and the atmosphere feels electric during cup weekends. If you support a smaller club, consider traveling to away games — the memories last a lifetime. You also benefit from downloading the official FA Cup app or visiting thefa.com for fixtures, news, and streaming links. Engage with fellow fans online using official hashtags to share predictions and celebrate goals. Most importantly, embrace the unpredictability. The draw already delivered excitement, and the matches will create new heroes regardless of the final score. Conclusion: Why This FA Cup Draw Captures the Heart of Football The fifth round draw for 2025/26 delivered everything fans love Unmasking Deception: about the competition. From Mansfield’s date with Arsenal to Wrexham’s clash with Chelsea, every tie promises drama, passion, and the possibility of history. The FA Cup continues to prove that dreams can come true on any pitch when the balls get drawn. As the matches approach in early March, supporters across the country clear their schedules and prepare for unforgettable weekends. Whether you cheer for a giant or a giant-killer, the next few weeks will deliver moments you will talk about for years. The road to Wembley is now clearer, yet nothing is certain until the final whistle blows. Get ready for another chapter in the greatest cup competition on earth. Frequently Asked Questions About the FA Cup Draw and 2025/26 Season 1. When and how did the latest fifth round FA Cup draw take place in 2026? The Emirates FA Cup fifth round proper draw happened live on Monday, February 16, 2026, from Macclesfield ahead of their fourth round match against Brentford. Former England stars Joe Cole and Karen Carney pulled the balls from the traditional bag, and the entire process was broadcast on TNT Sports. Officials announced the eight ties in order, and the nation reacted instantly on social media. This timing allowed clubs to prepare quickly while some fourth round replays remained outstanding. The draw created immediate excitement because it paired several Premier League sides with lower-league opponents who earned their places through impressive earlier results. Fans and pundits alike praised the balance of big clashes and potential giant-killing opportunities that emerged from those few minutes of drama. 2. What are the exact dates and TV channels for all the fifth round FA Cup matches? All fifth round ties take place between Friday, March 6, and Monday, March 9, 2026, to fit television schedules and club availability. Wolverhampton Wanderers host Liverpool on Friday evening with coverage on TNT Sports 1, discovery+, BBC One, and BBC iPlayer. Saturday features three games including Mansfield Town versus Arsenal at lunchtime and Mick Norcross Wrexham against Chelsea in the early evening slot, both with extensive live broadcasts. Sunday brings Fulham versus Southampton plus the remaining ties, while West Ham United welcomes Brentford on Monday night. International viewers can stream through ESPN+ in certain regions. These spread-out kick-off times let fans enjoy multiple matches across the weekend without missing any action, and broadcasters promise full highlights packages plus expert analysis throughout. 3. Which teams still have pending fourth round results that affect the fifth round? Only one tie remains undecided heading into the fifth round. Port Vale face Bristol City in a replay on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 19:45, and the winner travels to Sunderland. All other fourth round matches concluded, including Brentford’s narrow 1-0 victory over Macclesfield on the night of the draw itself. This means West Ham United now face Brentford with certainty. The replay adds extra drama because the winner gains a home tie against a strong Championship side and the financial boost that comes with it. Fans of both Port Vale and Bristol City watch that midweek game closely because progression suddenly opens doors to bigger prizes and national attention. 4. How does the FA Cup handle draws in the fifth round — are there replays? Yes, traditional replays still apply in the fifth round if matches end level after 90 minutes. Teams return to the pitch within the following week or two at the original away venue, and the winner advances. This rule gives underdogs another chance at glory and keeps the magic alive longer. Only when the competition reaches the semi-finals do ties move to extra time and penalties without replays. The system rewards resilience and adds layers of excitement because no result feels final until the second leg concludes. Clubs plan carefully for possible replays because fixture congestion can affect league form, yet most managers welcome the opportunity to keep their cup dreams alive. 5. How much prize money do clubs win for reaching and winning the fifth round? Clubs that win their fifth round tie receive £238,500 directly from the FA’s prize fund for the 2025/26 season. This payment arrives regardless of whether they progress further, and it provides a massive boost for smaller clubs. Losing teams from this round receive no additional prize money, although they still benefit from ticket sales and broadcast revenue. Earlier rounds offer smaller amounts that increase gradually, and the final winner collects £2 million. These figures help lower-league sides invest in facilities and players while giving Premier League clubs welcome extra income. The financial incentive encourages every team to take the competition seriously right from the first round. 6. Which underdog teams reached the fifth round and what makes their stories special? Mansfield Town and Wrexham stand out as the biggest stories this season. Mansfield, from League One, stunned Burnley in the fourth round with a dramatic comeback and now host Arsenal. Wrexham continued their Hollywood-backed rise by beating higher-level opposition and now welcome Chelsea. Macclesfield reached the fourth round after eliminating Crystal Palace but fell narrowly to Brentford. These clubs prove that heart, organization, and home support can overcome bigger budgets. Their journeys inspire fans everywhere and remind everyone why the FA Cup remains so beloved. Local communities rally behind them, and national media coverage turns their players into household names overnight. 7. What happens if a fifth round match gets postponed due to weather or other reasons? The FA reschedules postponed matches as quickly as possible, usually midweek, while working around existing league fixtures. Broadcasters and clubs coordinate to find suitable dates, and fans receive updates through official channels. In rare cases where replays also face issues, the competition continues with minimal disruption to the overall calendar. Safety always comes first, and the FA works closely with local authorities and police to ensure venues remain playable. Supporters can check club websites or the official FA Cup app for the latest information whenever bad weather threatens. The system keeps the competition moving forward fairly for every team involved. 8. How can fans buy tickets for the fifth round matches and what should they expect? Tickets usually go on general sale shortly after the draw, with priority given to season ticket holders and members of the home club. Prices remain affordable compared to league games, especially for lower-league hosts, and many clubs offer family packages or concessions. Away fans receive an allocated section, and supporters should check both clubs’ websites for exact on-sale dates and prices. Expect electric atmospheres because cup ties bring extra passion from both sets of supporters. Some matches sell out quickly, particularly those featuring big Premier League visitors, so fans need to act fast. Online purchasing is straightforward, and many grounds offer cashless entry for smoother experiences. 9. Who are the current favorites to win the entire 2025/26 FA Cup? Premier League sides like Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea start as strong favorites because of their squad depth and quality. However, the cup format means anything can happen, and past winners often came from teams that peaked at the right time. Newcastle and Manchester United also possess enough talent to go all the way if they avoid injuries. Lower-league sides realistically aim for quarter-final progress rather than outright victory, yet the draw keeps the dream alive for everyone. Bookmakers update odds after each round, and form in domestic leagues plays a big part. Ultimately, the team that handles rotation best and shows cup mentality usually lifts the trophy in May. 10. When does the quarter-final draw take place and how does it differ from earlier rounds? The quarter-final draw happens shortly after the fifth round completes, usually within a few days of the last tie. It follows the same random ball system without seeding, so any remaining team can face any other. The main difference is that only eight clubs remain, so the draw feels even more dramatic and decisive. Fixtures take place around April 4, 2026, with replays still possible until the semi-finals. Winners advance to the last four at neutral venues, and the prize money increases significantly. This stage often produces the most memorable ties of the entire competition because the stakes rise dramatically and every club senses Wembley within reach. Fans mark their calendars early because the quarter-final draw always delivers talking points for weeks. To Get More Sports Insights Click On Liverpool vs Arsenal – The 2026 Premier League Rivalry That Keeps Fans on the Edge Super Bowl UK Time: Patriots vs Seahawks Clash – Full Guide, Kickoff, TV & More! Dorking Wanderers Standings: Thrilling 2025-26 National League South Battle for Promotion Glory Tottenham vs Fulham: Epic Premier League Clash Heats Up in 2026 To Get More Info: Yorkshire Herald Post navigation Rob Cross: Voltage Strikes Back – The Electric Journey of Darts’ Unstoppable Champion Formula 1 Season: Unpacking Bahrain Pre-Season Testing Secrets and Surprises