The FA Cup fixtures for the 2025–26 season are currently underway, with the Fourth Round Proper being played from February 14–16, 2026. Clubs from across England are competing for a place in the next stage of the world’s oldest national football competition, and several major results have already shaped the tournament’s path toward Wembley Stadium in May.
For U.S. soccer fans, the FA Cup continues to grow in popularity thanks to broader television coverage and the increasing number of American viewers following the Premier League and English football overall.
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What Are the FA Cup Fixtures?
The FA Cup fixtures represent the official match schedule for the Emirates FA Cup 2025–26 season. The tournament includes clubs from the Premier League, the English Football League, and non-league divisions. Each round narrows the field until two teams meet in the final at Wembley Stadium.
The remaining key dates for this season are:
| Round | Date (2026) |
|---|---|
| Fourth Round Proper | February 14–16 & March 3 |
| Fifth Round Proper | March 7 |
| Quarter-Finals | April 4 |
| Semi-Finals | April 25 |
| Final | May 16 |
The Fourth Round Proper marks the stage where many Premier League clubs face lower-division sides, often creating the tournament’s most memorable moments.
Latest Results from the Fourth Round
Several Fourth Round matches have already been completed, delivering decisive performances and surprises.
- Wrexham 1–0 Ipswich Town
Wrexham advanced to the Fifth Round after a narrow victory, continuing their strong domestic cup run this season. - Chelsea 4–0 Hull City
Chelsea secured a commanding win, progressing comfortably to the next stage.
These early results highlight both expected outcomes and the unpredictable nature of knockout football.
FA Cup Fixtures: February 14–16 Schedule
Here is the confirmed Fourth Round schedule currently being played:
Saturday, February 14, 2026
- Southampton vs. Leicester City
- Burnley vs. Mansfield Town
- Norwich City vs. West Bromwich Albion
- Manchester City vs. Salford City
- Aston Villa vs. Newcastle United
- Liverpool vs. Brighton & Hove Albion
Sunday, February 15, 2026
- Birmingham City vs. Leeds United
- Grimsby Town vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers
- Stoke City vs. Fulham
- Oxford United vs. Sunderland AFC
- Arsenal vs. Wigan Athletic
Monday, February 16, 2026
- Macclesfield vs. Brentford
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
- Port Vale vs. Bristol City (rescheduled)
All kickoff times are listed in UK local time. U.S. viewers should check broadcast schedules for adjusted Eastern and Pacific times.
Key Matchups to Watch
Several ties in this round stand out due to competitive balance, historical rivalries, or the potential for an upset.
Liverpool vs. Brighton & Hove Albion
Liverpool host Brighton at Anfield in one of the most anticipated fixtures of the round. Both clubs are balancing league and cup commitments, making squad rotation a factor. Liverpool’s home advantage gives them an edge, but Brighton’s disciplined style keeps the matchup competitive.
Aston Villa vs. Newcastle United
Aston Villa welcome Newcastle in a clash between two top-flight sides with ambitions beyond domestic league play. Both clubs have demonstrated strong defensive organization this season, suggesting a tightly contested affair.
Arsenal vs. Wigan Athletic
Arsenal enter as favorites against League One side Wigan Athletic. However, the FA Cup has a long tradition of lower-division teams challenging elite opponents. Arsenal’s depth should prove decisive, but Wigan’s motivation cannot be overlooked.
Manchester City vs. Salford City
Manchester City face lower-league opposition in Salford City. While City are expected to advance, cup competition always introduces unpredictability, particularly when rotation players are given opportunities.
Weather Impact on Fixtures
Winter conditions in England have affected multiple matches this month. Ice and snow warnings led to at least one postponement, with Port Vale vs. Bristol City rescheduled for March 3.
Ground inspections remain standard protocol when severe weather threatens pitch conditions. Clubs prioritize player safety and field integrity before confirming matchday readiness.
Looking Ahead to the Fifth Round
The FA Cup fixtures will move into the Fifth Round Proper on March 7, 2026. The 16 remaining clubs will compete for eight quarter-final spots.
This stage often signals the transition from surprise storylines to serious title contention. Premier League clubs typically dominate the latter rounds, but recent seasons have proven that lower-tier teams can advance deep into the tournament.
The Fifth Round draw will determine matchups once the Fourth Round concludes in full.
Why the FA Cup Still Matters
The FA Cup remains one of the most prestigious trophies in English football. While league titles reflect consistency, the FA Cup rewards resilience in high-pressure, single-elimination settings.
Key reasons the competition continues to captivate fans include:
- Single-elimination drama
- Giant-killing opportunities
- European qualification for the winner
- Historic legacy dating back to 1871
For American audiences, the tournament offers a unique contrast to U.S. sports playoffs. Upsets occur in one match rather than a best-of-seven series, increasing unpredictability and tension.
How U.S. Fans Can Follow FA Cup Fixtures
Broadcast and streaming rights make it easier than ever for American viewers to track FA Cup action live.
Coverage is typically available through:
- Major sports streaming platforms
- Cable sports networks with Premier League partnerships
- On-demand replay services
Fans should confirm listings locally as broadcast rights occasionally shift between networks during the season.
Teams Advancing So Far
As of February 14, 2026:
- Chelsea have advanced to the Fifth Round.
- Wrexham have progressed following their victory.
- Additional Fourth Round matches remain in progress throughout the weekend.
Results from remaining ties will finalize the Fifth Round lineup by early March.
What Comes After the Fifth Round?
Following the Fifth Round:
- Quarter-Finals take place April 4.
- Semi-Finals are scheduled for April 25 at Wembley Stadium.
- The FA Cup Final will be held May 16, 2026, at Wembley.
The winner earns a place in next season’s UEFA Europa League, adding significant incentive for clubs competing outside traditional league title races.
The Road to Wembley
Every FA Cup season builds momentum as the field narrows. Early rounds often deliver surprises, while later stages typically feature Premier League heavyweights.
Wembley Stadium remains the symbolic destination for all participating clubs. For lower-league sides, reaching the semi-finals can define a generation. For top clubs, lifting the FA Cup adds silverware and international qualification.
This year’s FA Cup fixtures have already delivered competitive balance and high-scoring performances. With several Premier League teams still active, the tournament remains wide open heading into the final months.
Current Snapshot of the Tournament
Here is where the competition stands today:
- Fourth Round matches are ongoing.
- Chelsea and Wrexham have secured advancement.
- Fifth Round matches are scheduled for March 7.
- The final is set for May 16 at Wembley.
As results continue to unfold, the bracket will clarify, and championship contenders will emerge.
The FA Cup consistently delivers compelling storylines, whether through dominant performances or underdog breakthroughs. With several high-profile matches still ahead, the coming weeks will shape the narrative of this historic competition.
Which of these FA Cup fixtures are you watching this weekend? Share your predictions and stay tuned for the next round of results.
