The magic of the FA Cup returns to screens this weekend, with a bumper schedule of 22 live matches set to be broadcast across four days. The third round proper kicks off on Friday, 9th January, under a new television deal that sees extensive coverage across TNT Sports and discovery+.
New Broadcast Deal Shakes Up Coverage
This season marks a significant shift in how fans can watch the FA Cup. TNT Sports and discovery+ hold the primary rights, showing every single third-round fixture live, with the sole exception of those subject to the traditional Saturday 3pm blackout. The BBC, in a co-exclusive arrangement with the main rights holder, will broadcast a select two games this weekend. This follows a four-year agreement, which means ITV will not be showing any FA Cup action this season.
Complete Weekend TV Schedule
The action begins on Friday, 9th January, with a 7:30pm slate featuring Wrexham's clash with Nottingham Forest on TNT Sports 1. Saturday is packed with matches from lunchtime onwards. The BBC's offerings are Macclesfield vs Crystal Palace at 12:15pm and the evening showdown between Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa at 5:45pm, both on BBC One and iPlayer.
Sunday's headline fixtures include Derby County vs Leeds United at noon and a 2pm kick-off for Portsmouth's tie with Arsenal. The weekend concludes on Monday, 12th January, with Liverpool hosting Barnsley in a 7:45pm match live on TNT Sports 1.
Key Fixtures to Watch
Saturday, 10th January
12:15: Macclesfield vs Crystal Palace (BBC One, BBC iPlayer, TNT Sports 1, discovery+)
17:45: Tottenham vs Aston Villa (BBC One, BBC iPlayer, TNT Sports 1, discovery+)
20:00: Charlton Athletic vs Chelsea (TNT Sports 1, discovery+)
Sunday, 11th January
14:00: Portsmouth vs Arsenal (TNT Sports 1, discovery+)
16:30: Manchester United vs Brighton (TNT Sports 1, TNT Sports 2, discovery+)
Monday, 12th January
19:45: Liverpool vs Barnsley (TNT Sports 1, discovery+)
Format Changes and Fourth Round Draw
Fans should note that FA Cup replays have been scrapped for all full rounds, a change implemented last season and continuing into this campaign. This means every tie will be decided on the day, with extra time and penalties if necessary.
The draw for the highly anticipated fourth round will be held on Monday, 12th January. While a precise time is yet to be confirmed, it is expected to take place before the evening kick-off between Liverpool and Barnsley, and will be broadcast live on TNT Sports and the Discovery+ app.
