FA Cup Fifth Round Draw Reaction: Big Premier League Clashes and Giant-Killing Dreams

The FA Cup Fifth Round draw has delivered everything supporters hope for at this stage of the competition: romance, potential giant-killings, heavyweight Premier League clashes, and the unmistakable scent of Wembley on the horizon.

With just sixteen teams remaining, the road to the quarter-finals is now clearly mapped out and there are some fascinating ties to look forward to.

The Full FA Cup Fifth Round Draw

• West Ham United vs Macclesfield or Brentford

• Wrexham vs Chelsea

• Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Liverpool

• Mansfield Town vs Arsenal

• Leeds United vs Norwich City

• Newcastle United vs Manchester City

• Port Vale or Bristol City vs Sunderland

• Fulham vs Southampton

Match-by-Match Reaction & Predictions

Mansfield Town vs Arsenal

League One side Mansfield Town welcome 14-time FA Cup winners Arsenal in what could be one of the stories of the round.

The two clubs last met in the FA Cup almost a century ago, back in 1929. Mansfield’s dramatic win over Burnley has extended their fairytale run, and they will believe another upset is possible.

Arsenal, meanwhile, comfortably dispatched Wigan in the previous round. Mikel Arteta’s side have serious ambitions of returning to Wembley and are among the bookmakers’ favourites to lift the trophy.

Prediction: 1-0 Mansfield. A massive shock could be on the cards.

Port Vale or Bristol City vs Sunderland

Port Vale’s postponed tie against Bristol City has been rearranged for March 3rd, with the winner hosting Sunderland.

Sunderland will back themselves against either opponent, but away trips to lower-league grounds full of belief and noise are rarely straightforward in the FA Cup.

Still, the Premier League side are clear favourites.

Prediction: Sunderland win comfortably, 2-0.

West Ham vs Macclesfield or Brentford

West Ham await fellow Premier League side Brentford.

Brentford progressed to the filth round through an own goal against Macclesfield yesterday night which will make this a tough all-Premier League tie against West Ham United who are looking to revive their season through the FA Cup

Prediction: Brentford beat West Gam 2-1.

Wrexham vs Chelsea

One of the glamour ties of the round sees Wrexham host an in-form Chelsea.

Ryan Reynolds’ club have enjoyed a remarkable rise through the divisions, and a high-profile FA Cup night against top-flight opposition feels perfectly scripted.

However, Liam Rosenior’s Chelsea are finding rhythm and confidence.

Prediction: Chelsea win 3-1.

Fulham vs Southampton

Fulham have a strong opportunity to reach consecutive FA Cup quarter-finals after falling to eventual winners Crystal Palace last season.

Southampton showed resilience in defeating Leicester after extra time in the last round, but Craven Cottage will be a stern test.

Prediction: Fulham 2-1 Southampton.

Leeds United vs Norwich City

Daniel Farke faces his former club as Leeds host Norwich at Elland Road.

The Canaries have quietly navigated their route to the fifth round, but Elland Road under the lights presents a different challenge.

Prediction: 1-1 after 90 minutes. Leeds to win in extra time or on penalties.

Newcastle United vs Manchester City

The headline tie of the round sees Newcastle United host Manchester City at St James’ Park.

The Magpies thrive under the intensity of their home crowd, and City will know this is no routine fixture.

Prediction: Newcastle to win narrowly possibly after extra time or penalties.

Wolves vs Liverpool

Another all-Premier League affair as Liverpool travel to Molineux.

Despite their domestic struggles, Wolves have a reputation for troubling top-six sides at home. Arne Slot’s tendency to rotate in cup competitions adds intrigue.

Prediction: Liverpool 2-0 Wolves.