The stage is set for the FA Cup fourth round draw, with Premier League giants and non-league heroes alike waiting to discover their fate. The third round delivered one of the competition's greatest ever upsets, setting the tone for a thrilling next phase.
Third Round Shocks Set the Scene
The weekend's action was headlined by a seismic result at Moss Rose. National League North side Macclesfield produced a stunning FA Cup shock, defeating the holders Crystal Palace to book their place in the fourth round. This historic giant-killing means Macclesfield are now the lowest-ranked side left in the competition.
They were not the only underdogs to triumph. Hollywood-backed Wrexham AFC of the Championship secured a memorable victory over Premier League Nottingham Forest. League One's Wigan Athletic also progressed, beating high-flying Championship outfit Preston North End.
Premier League Heavyweights Progress Comfortably
While shocks abounded, the top-flight's leading sides largely navigated their ties safely. Arsenal, chasing an unprecedented quadruple this season, cruised to a 4-1 win over Portsmouth on Sunday, powered by a Gabriel Martinelli hat-trick. They are joined in the draw by rivals Manchester City, Chelsea, and West Ham.
Liam Rosenior enjoyed a winning start as Chelsea's new manager, overseeing a 5-1 victory against Charlton Athletic. However, it was a different story for Manchester United, who fell to a frustrating 2-1 home defeat against Brighton under caretaker boss Darren Fletcher.
All Eyes on Anfield and the Draw
The final piece of the fourth-round puzzle will be decided this evening, Monday 12 January 2026, as Liverpool host League One's Barnsley at Anfield. Arne Slot's side will be keen to avoid adding to the weekend's catalogue of surprises.
Immediately following that match, the draw for the fourth round will take place. Thirty-two teams remain in contention, from the elite of the Premier League to the non-league dreamers of Macclesfield. All will be watching closely to see if they are handed a glamour tie or a winnable route to the fifth round.
The FA Cup has once again proven its capacity for drama, and the anticipation for the next chapter is palpable.
