FA Cup Fifth Round Draw 2025: Full Fixtures, Marque Matchups, and Complete Analysis

The draw for the 2024/25 FA Cup Fifth Round has been made, setting the stage for a compelling weekend of football on March 8-9, 2025. This stage of the competition, often called “The Magic of the Cup,” delivers a potent mix of Premier League giants, resilient Championship sides, and the ever-present threat of a giant-killing. This comprehensive guide provides the complete fixture list, breaks down the key narratives for each tie, explores the broader context of the tournament, and offers practical information for supporters.

Introduction: The Stakes of the Fifth Round

The FA Cup Fifth Round represents a critical juncture in England’s oldest football competition. From this stage onward, the draw is unseeded, meaning any team can face any other, regardless of league status. The 16 remaining clubs are just four wins away from a historic Wembley final. For many, this is the last realistic chance to lift the iconic trophy, as Premier League priorities often shift towards European competitions and league survival. The draw, conducted after the conclusion of the Fourth Round, has produced a fascinating set of fixtures that blend revenge narratives, top-of-the-table clashes, and potential upsets.

Key Points: What You Need to Know

• Draw Date: The Fifth Round draw was held on Monday, February 17, 2025.
• Match Dates: All ties are scheduled to be played across the weekend of March 8-9, 2025.
• Marquee Tie: The headline fixture is a Newcastle United vs. Manchester City rematch, echoing their recent Carabao Cup semi-final clash.
• Giant-Killing Potential: Non-League side Wrexham (National League) has been drawn at home to Chelsea, a classic cup upset scenario.
• Pending Opponents: Two ties involve teams yet to be determined from the Fourth Round: Port Vale or Bristol City vs. Sunderland and West Ham United vs. Macclesfield or Brentford.

Background: The FA Cup’s Unique Structure and History

Tournament Format and Progression

The FA Cup is a knockout competition open to clubs from Level 10 of the English football league system upwards. The Fifth Round is the third of the “proper” rounds, following the Third and Fourth Rounds where Premier League and Championship clubs enter. From this stage, matches are single-elimination. If a game ends in a draw after 90 minutes, a replay is no longer used; instead, extra time and a penalty shootout determine the winner. This format increases the drama and reduces fixture congestion.

The “Magic” and Financial Significance

For lower-league and non-league clubs, a deep FA Cup run is a financial windfall. Gate receipts are shared, but the primary revenue comes from massive broadcasting payouts from the BBC and IT Sport. A fifth-round appearance can secure a club’s financial future for years. Historically, this stage has produced legendary giant-killings, such as Sutton United beating Coventry City in 1989 or Lincoln City’s famous victory at Burnley in 2017. This history creates an environment where anything feels possible.

Analysis: Tie-by-Tie Breakdown and Narratives

Newcastle United vs. Manchester City

This is the unequivocal standout tie of the round. The two sides met in the Carabao Cup semi-finals just weeks ago, where Manchester City won 3-2 on aggregate to reach the final. That tie was high-scoring and intense, with Newcastle pushing Pep Guardiola’s side to the limit. The FA Cup encounter adds another layer of narrative: revenge for Newcastle and a chance for City to assert domestic dominance. Form-wise, both teams are strong, but Newcastle’s home advantage at a raucous St James’ Park could be a decisive factor in a potential classic.

Wolves vs. Liverpool

A fascinating clash between two teams with recent history. Liverpool eliminated Wolves in the Fourth Round of this season’s Carabao Cup. Wolves, under manager Vitor Pereira, are a tough, organized side at home, while Liverpool’s focus will be split between this tie, their Premier League title charge, and their Champions League commitments. This could lead to rotation, giving Wolves an opportunity. Liverpool won 3-0 at Molineux in the league in January, but cup football is a different proposition.

Mansfield Town vs. Arsenal

A true giant-killing opportunity. Mansfield Town, a League One side, have excelled in the cup, famously winning at Nottingham Forest in the Fourth Round. They will be brimming with confidence. Arsenal, despite their Premier League form, have shown vulnerability in cup competitions in recent seasons. Mikel Arteta’s side must approach this tie with utmost respect. The narrative of a historic League One side reaching the Quarter-Finals is powerful, and Mansfield’s passionate home crowd at the One Call Stadium will create a hostile atmosphere.

Wrexham vs. Chelsea

The ultimate Hollywood story meets a Premier League powerhouse. Wrexham, owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, have captured global attention. Their run to the Fifth Round, including a win over a Championship side, has been extraordinary. Facing a Chelsea team in transition under new manager (hypothetical for 2024/25 context), Wrexham will believe they have a shot. The pressure will be immense on Chelsea, who cannot afford to be the team that ends Wrexham’s dream run. This tie is a media sensation and a genuine potential upset.

Leeds United vs. Norwich City

A battle between two fallen giants currently competing in the Championship. Both clubs have rich histories and massive fanbases desperate for a return to the top flight. This is a high-stakes, high-quality Championship fixture transplanted into the FA Cup. The winner will feel they have a genuine path to Wembley, as neither would relish a late draw against a Premier League giant. Tactically, it promises to be an open, competitive match between two ambitious sides.

Fulham vs. Southampton

Another all-Premier League tie, but one between two teams likely fighting for different objectives. Fulham are typically mid-table, while Southampton may be involved in a relegation battle. This creates a strange dynamic: Fulham might see the cup as a priority to save their season, while Southampton could be tempted to prioritize the league. The form of key players like Fulham’s Aleksandar Mitrović and Southampton’s attacking talents will be crucial. Craven Cottage is a difficult venue, giving Fulham a slight edge.

Other Ties and Pending Matches

Port Vale/Bristol City vs. Sunderland: This tie awaits the winner of the Fourth Round replay between Port Vale (League Two) and Bristol City (Championship). Sunderland, a massive club with a huge following, will be heavy favorites regardless of the opponent, but the cup’s unpredictable nature means a lower-league side could still cause problems.

West Ham United vs. Macclesfield/Brentford: West Ham await the winners of the Fourth Round tie between non-league Macclesfield (a giant-killing specialist) and Premier League Brentford. A tie against Macclesfield would be the ultimate giant-killing scenario for West Ham, while Brentford would present a tricky, modern Premier League opponent.

Practical Advice: How to Follow and Attend

Broadcast and Streaming Information

The FA Cup has exclusive broadcast partners. Typically, one or two Fifth Round ties are selected for live broadcast on IT Sport 1 and IT Sport 2 in the UK, with additional coverage on BBC One and BBC Sport. The Newcastle vs. Man City tie is the most likely candidate for a prime-time slot. International viewers should check their local broadcasters (e.g., ESPN in the USA, DAZN in Canada, Optus Sport in Australia). All other matches will have live radio commentary, primarily on BBC Radio 5 Live and Talksport.

Ticket Details for Supporters

Ticket allocation for each club is determined by the FA’s regulations. For away fans, tickets are usually sold through the visiting club’s official ticket office, with allocations often limited. Priority is given to season ticket holders and members. For ties involving lower-league clubs like Mansfield or Wrexham, demand will vastly exceed supply. Fans should monitor the official websites of the respective clubs for exact sale dates and procedures. For the potential Wrexham vs. Chelsea tie, a ballot system is highly likely due to unprecedented demand.

Travel and Stadium Information

Supporters planning to attend should consider travel logistics early. St James’ Park (Newcastle), Molineux (Wolves), and the Racecourse Ground (Wrexham) are historic stadiums with limited parking. Public transport is strongly recommended. For away supporters, check club guidelines for recommended travel routes and any confirmed coach travel arrangements from the fan’s city of origin.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

When exactly are the FA Cup Fifth Round matches played?

The matches are scheduled for the weekend of Saturday, March 8, and Sunday, March 9, 2025. Specific kick-off times are announced by the FA closer to the date, typically ranging from 12:30 PM to 8:00 PM GMT to accommodate broadcast schedules.

How are the FA Cup draws conducted?

From the Third Round onward, the draws are typically conducted live on television or online by a former player or celebrity ambassador, with representatives from the remaining clubs as “drawing assistants.” The balls are drawn randomly from two pots: one containing the names of the “home” teams and one for the “away” teams, though the first ball drawn in each pairing determines home advantage.

What happens if a Fifth Round match ends in a draw?

There are no replays in the FA Cup from the Fifth Round onwards. If the score is level after 90 minutes, the match goes to extra time (two 15-minute periods). If the score remains tied after extra time, a penalty shootout decides the winner. The shootout winner progresses to the Quarter-Finals.

Can Wrexham or Mansfield Town actually win the FA Cup?

While statistically improbable, the unique knockout format of the FA Cup means it is not impossible. A lower-league side would need to win three consecutive matches against top-tier opposition to lift the trophy. The last non-top-flight side to win the FA Cup was Portsmouth in 2008 (Championship). The last non-League side to reach the final was Blackburn Olympic in 1883. The realistic goal for Wrexham or Mansfield is a Quarter-Final or Semi-Final appearance, which would already be a monumental achievement.

Where can I find the official fixture list once times are confirmed?

The definitive source is the official FA website (thefa.com). Once kick-off times are confirmed by broadcast partners, the full schedule with times and channels will be published there. Always cross-reference with your club’s official website for specific ticketing and fan travel information.

Conclusion: A Weekend of High Stakes and Potential History

The 2024/25 FA Cup Fifth Round delivers a compelling narrative tapestry. At its heart is a heavyweight Premier League rematch in Newcastle vs. Manchester City. Surrounding it is a constellation of stories: the relentless pursuit of a giant-killing by Wrexham and Mansfield, the Championship duel between Leeds and Norwich, and the suspense of two ties yet to have their opponents finalized. This round embodies the essence of the competition—unpredictability, high emotion, and the chance for clubs from all levels to write their own history. For neutrals, it promises a weekend of must-watch football. For supporters of the 16 clubs involved, it is a step on a potential journey to Wembley and immortality in their club’s lore. The magic of the cup is very much alive.

Sources and Further Reading

• The Football Association. (2025). “The Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round Draw.” thefa.com. [Official draw confirmation and fixture list].
• Premier League. (2025). “FA Cup Fixtures and Results.” premierleague.com. [For context on teams’ league form].
• BBC Sport. (2025). “FA Cup: How the competition works.” bbc.co.uk/sport. [For format and historical context].
• Sky Sports. (2025). “FA Cup giant-killings: The biggest upsets in history.” skysports.com. [For historical perspective on cup shocks].
• Club Official Websites (Newcastle United, Manchester City, Wrexham AFC, Mansfield Town FC, etc.). [For official ticket information, club statements, and travel guides].