The magic of the FA Cup was in full flow as the third round delivered a night of high drama, giant-killing hopes, and late heroics. Premier League champions Manchester City were pushed hard by League One Exeter City, while Championship side Sheffield Wednesday produced a stunning comeback against top-flight Brentford.
Manchester City Survive Exeter Scare at the Etihad
Pep Guardiola's Manchester City ultimately secured their passage to the fourth round, but not before being given a serious examination by a determined Exeter side. The League One visitors, backed by a passionate travelling support, defended resolutely for large periods and created several promising opportunities on the counter-attack.
City, who made a number of changes to their starting lineup, found it difficult to break down a well-organised Grecians defence in the first half. The deadlock was finally broken after the interval, with Phil Foden playing a pivotal role in the opener. The England international's surging run and precise pass set up the first goal, effectively breaking Exeter's resistance. Further goals followed to put a gloss on the scoreline, but the performance of the visitors earned widespread praise.
Sheffield Wednesday's Remarkable Comeback Stuns Brentford
In arguably the tie of the night, Championship strugglers Sheffield Wednesday produced a sensational turnaround to knock out Premier League Brentford. The Bees, featuring Ivan Toney in their attack, appeared to be in control for much of the contest and held a commanding lead as the match entered its final stages.
However, the Owls, roared on by a fervent Hillsborough crowd, staged an unbelievable late rally. Two goals in quick succession dragged them back into the contest, setting up a grandstand finish. Then, deep into added time, Wednesday completed a famous victory with a third, decisive goal, sparking wild celebrations and securing one of the most memorable results of their recent history.
Other Third Round Action and What Comes Next
Elsewhere across the fixtures, other clubs booked their places in the coveted fourth-round draw. The results mean the dream continues for some, while for others, like Exeter and Brentford, their cup journeys are over for another season.
The focus now shifts to the next stage of the competition. The winners will discover their fourth-round opponents in the imminent draw, where the possibility of another glamour tie or a potential giant-killing away day awaits. For the lower-league sides still involved, the financial and reputational rewards of a deep cup run remain a powerful incentive.
The night served as a potent reminder of the FA Cup's unique appeal, where form and league status can be rendered irrelevant over ninety minutes of football. From Manchester City's professional, if not entirely fluent, victory to Sheffield Wednesday's heroic fightback, the third round once again provided the drama fans cherish.
