The draw for the Emirates FA Cup fifth round proper has been conducted, setting the stage for an intense round of fixtures. Former England internationals Alex Scott and Theo Walcott revealed the matchups live on BBC’s The One Show on Monday, February 10. With only 16 teams remaining, the competition is heating up, and a prize of £225,000 awaits each victorious club.
The fifth-round clashes will take place over the weekend of Saturday, March 1, and Sunday, March 2. While broadcast details and final schedules are yet to be confirmed, the anticipation for these fixtures is already building.
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Plymouth Argyle’s Reward: A Tough Test at the Etihad
One of the most intriguing matchups sees Plymouth Argyle travel to the Etihad Stadium to face reigning Premier League champions Manchester City. After their stunning victory over Liverpool in the fourth round, the Pilgrims now have another monumental challenge against Pep Guardiola’s side.
Manchester City, known for their dominance in domestic cup competitions, will be strong favorites, but Plymouth will be eager to continue their fairytale run. With giant-killing history in the FA Cup, the lower-league side will hope to pull off another shock.
All-Premier League Showdowns to Watch
Three all-Premier League ties promise to deliver thrilling contests. Manchester United will host Fulham at Old Trafford, aiming to maintain their pursuit of silverware. Erik ten Hag’s side will look to capitalize on their home advantage, while Marco Silva’s Fulham will be keen to prove their mettle.
Newcastle United, fresh off their Carabao Cup final appearance, will lock horns with Brighton & Hove Albion. The Seagulls, who recently ousted Chelsea, will be confident heading into this clash, while Eddie Howe’s Magpies will aim to avoid another early exit.
Meanwhile, Bournemouth, who have never progressed past the FA Cup quarter-finals, will take on four-time champions Wolves in a battle for a place in the last eight.
Championship Clubs Eyeing Quarter-Final Berths
Aston Villa will host Cardiff City in a fixture where the Premier League side will look to avoid an upset. Unai Emery’s men eliminated Tottenham in the previous round and will be eager to continue their strong cup campaign.
Another Championship side is guaranteed to progress, as Preston North End will welcome their Lancashire rivals Burnley in a classic derby encounter. Both teams will be determined to secure bragging rights and a coveted quarter-final spot.
Lower-League Teams Dream of Glory
Two fixtures remain subject to the outcomes of fourth-round replays. The winners of Doncaster Rovers vs. Crystal Palace will host Millwall, presenting a golden opportunity for an underdog to reach the last eight.
Ipswich Town, currently flying high in the Championship, will face either Exeter City or Nottingham Forest. A favorable draw could provide the Tractor Boys with a pathway to a deep cup run.
Full Fifth Round Draw
- Preston North End vs. Burnley
- Aston Villa vs. Cardiff City
- Doncaster Rovers or Crystal Palace vs. Millwall
- Manchester United vs. Fulham
- Newcastle United vs. Brighton & Hove Albion
- AFC Bournemouth vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers
- Manchester City vs. Plymouth Argyle
- Exeter City or Nottingham Forest vs. Ipswich Town
With mouth-watering fixtures on the horizon, the fifth round of the FA Cup promises high-stakes drama and the potential for more unforgettable moments. Will the favorites prevail, or will underdogs rise to the occasion? Fans won’t have to wait long to find out.
When Will the Fifth Round Matches Take Place?
The FA Cup fifth round matches are set to be played on the weekend beginning Saturday, 1 March. Unlike previous stages, there will be no replays or two-legged ties, meaning all games will be settled on the day, ensuring high-stakes drama.
Looking ahead, the competition timeline is as follows:
- Quarter-finals – Late March
- Semi-finals – Late April
- Final – Saturday, 17 May, marking the first time it will be played a week before the Premier League season’s conclusion.
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FAQs
When was the FA Cup fifth-round draw conducted?
The draw for the FA Cup fifth round was held on Monday, February 10, and was broadcast live on BBC’s The One Show.
When will the FA Cup fifth-round matches take place?
The fixtures will be played over the weekend of Saturday, March 1, and Sunday, March 2, with final schedules and broadcast details to be confirmed.
What is the biggest fixture of the FA Cup fifth round?
Plymouth Argyle’s trip to Manchester City is a standout tie, as the lower-league side looks to cause another major upset after eliminating Liverpool.
Which teams are playing all-Premier League clashes?
The three all-Premier League fixtures include Manchester United vs. Fulham, Newcastle United vs. Brighton, and Bournemouth vs. Wolves.
How much prize money is at stake for winning teams?
Each team that wins their fifth-round fixture will receive £225,000 from the FA Cup prize fund.
