FA Youth Cup Fifth Round: Oxford United vs Manchester United Preview
The FA Youth Cup continues this week with a highly anticipated fifth-round clash as Oxford United welcome Manchester United to the Kassam Stadium. This match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams vying for a coveted spot in the quarter-finals of the prestigious competition.
Match Details and How to Watch
The fixture is scheduled for Wednesday, 18 February 2026, with kick-off set for 6pm UK time. The Kassam Stadium in Oxford will host this crucial tie, marking a rare visit for the Manchester United youth side to this venue.
Fans eager to catch the action live have multiple viewing options. The match will be broadcast exclusively on MUTV, accessible via subscription through Sky, Virgin Media, or the official Manchester United App. Additionally, supporters in the United Kingdom and Ireland can enjoy a complimentary live stream on Manchester United's official YouTube channel, ensuring broad accessibility for viewers.
Team Form and Road to the Fifth Round
Oxford United have demonstrated resilience and skill to reach this stage, securing impressive victories over Wigan Athletic and Colchester United in earlier rounds. This match represents their third consecutive home game in the competition, a factor they will hope to leverage to their advantage against formidable opponents.
Manchester United, the most successful team in FA Youth Cup history with a record 11 titles, enter this round following hard-fought wins against Peterborough United and Derby County. Notably, this is their first away fixture in this year's tournament, adding an extra layer of challenge as they aim to continue their cup run.
Key Players and Squad Updates
Manchester United receive a significant boost with the availability of star schoolboy striker JJ Gabriel, whose recent red card against West Brom was successfully overturned on appeal. His return adds firepower to the attacking line-up. Midfielder Jim Thwaites also rejoins the squad after missing the previous round, strengthening the midfield options.
All eyes will be on Kai Rooney, who could feature after making his memorable Old Trafford debut in the last round. His potential involvement adds excitement and media attention to the match.
Oxford United will likely rely on the talents of Mo Missanga, described as an "electric" attacker who recently earned a spot in the senior matchday squad, showcasing his rising profile. Striker Jack Lee remains a vital figure, having scored the winning penalty in their recent outing against Newport County, highlighting his composure under pressure.
Recent Form and Historical Context
Both teams arrive in confident spirits. Manchester United's Under-18s are buoyed by a dominant 3-1 victory over rivals Manchester City in their most recent league fixture, demonstrating their attacking prowess. Oxford United are also in fine form, having won five of their last six matches across various competitions, indicating a well-drilled and motivated side.
Historically, this is a rare visit to the Kassam Stadium for Manchester United. Current coach Darren Fletcher holds a unique connection, being one of the few to have scored there during a 2006 friendly, adding a personal narrative to the encounter.
What's at Stake
The winner of this tie will advance to the quarter-finals, where they will face either Sunderland or Brighton & Hove Albion. With both teams showcasing strong form and key players returning, this match is poised to be a closely contested battle, offering a glimpse into the future stars of English football.
