The drama of the FA Cup third round is almost over, setting the stage for the next chapter as the competition moves towards the fourth round. Several Premier League giants have already fallen, with the standout story being non-league Macclesfield FC's historic victory over holders Crystal Palace.
Third Round Upsets and Thrillers
This season's tournament has already delivered unforgettable moments. Macclesfield FC created FA Cup history on Saturday by eliminating the defending champions, Crystal Palace, in what is being hailed as the greatest giant-killing act the competition has ever seen.
Meanwhile, Manchester City showcased their attacking power with a resounding 10-1 demolition of Exeter City. Their new £65 million signing, Antoine Semenyo, marked his debut with a goal. Chelsea also began the Liam Rosenior era in emphatic style, securing a 5-1 statement win against Charlton Athletic.
Other notable results saw Aston Villa defeat Tottenham Hotspur, increasing pressure on Spurs manager Thomas Frank. Both Sunderland and Newcastle United advanced after winning tense penalty shootouts against Everton and Bournemouth respectively.
Final third-round fixtures are set for this weekend, with Brighton & Hove Albion travelling to face Manchester United at Old Trafford, and Arsenal taking on Championship side Portsmouth.
Everything You Need for the Fourth Round Draw
The draw that will determine the fourth round match-ups is imminent. Here is all the essential information for fans.
The FA Cup fourth round draw will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026. It is scheduled to commence at approximately 6:35 PM GMT, just before the final third-round tie between Liverpool and Barnsley kicks off at Anfield.
Coverage will be presented by Darren Fletcher and Ally McCoist. The all-important balls will be drawn by two former England internationals and FA Cup winners, Joe Cole and Steven Gerrard.
FA Cup Fourth Round Ball Numbers
The following ball numbers have been allocated for the draw:
- Wolverhampton Wanderers
- Southampton
- Aston Villa
- Port Vale
- Wigan Athletic
- Ipswich Town
- Wrexham
- Chelsea
- Manchester City
- West Ham United or Queens Park Rangers
- Brentford
- Fulham
- Sunderland
- Liverpool or Barnsley
- Burnley
- Norwich City or Walsall
- Portsmouth or Arsenal
- Derby County or Leeds United
- Swansea City or West Bromwich Albion
- Salford City or Swindon Town
- Burton Albion
- Grimsby Town
- Hull City or Blackburn Rovers
- Newcastle United
- Oxford United
- Leicester City
- Birmingham City
- Bristol City
- Stoke City
- Macclesfield
- Manchester United or Brighton & Hove Albion
- Sheffield United or Mansfield Town
How to Watch the Draw Live
For viewers in the United Kingdom, the draw will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1. Subscribers can also stream the event via the Discovery+ app and website.
If you do not have a subscription, you can still watch for free. The FA Cup draw will be streamed live on the official TNT Sports YouTube channel at no cost.
Key Dates and Competition Rules
The fourth round matches are scheduled to be played over the weekend of February 14-15, 2026.
It is important to note that replays have been removed from the FA Cup for this season. This rule, introduced last year, remains in place. If any match in the fourth round ends in a draw after 90 minutes, it will proceed directly to extra time and, if necessary, a penalty shootout to determine the winner on the day.
All eyes will now be on Monday's draw to see which potential David vs Goliath clashes await in the next stage of the world's oldest domestic cup competition.
