The FA Cup fifth round promises an exciting weekend of football as several teams battle for a place in the quarter-finals. One of the standout fixtures sees Newcastle United face Manchester City again at St James’ Park, marking the fifth time the two sides have met this season.
Football analyst Chris Sutton believes the teams might already be tired of playing each other after four encounters earlier in the campaign. City previously defeated Newcastle across two legs in the EFL Cup semi-final, but Sutton expects a much tighter contest this time.
Joining Sutton in predicting the results of the eight fifth-round matches is Steven Knight, a passionate supporter of Birmingham City. Knight has been promoting his new film The Immortal Man, which is releasing in cinemas before arriving on Netflix on 20 March.
Although Birmingham were knocked out earlier in the competition, the club has a long history with the FA Cup. They reached the final twice, most famously losing to Manchester City in 1956 at Wembley Stadium in the historic “Trautmann Final.” During that match, City goalkeeper Bert Trautmann continued playing despite suffering a broken neck, making it one of the most remarkable moments in football history.
Knight recalled how his brother attended that match and how Birmingham’s famous anthem “Keep Right On” became associated with the club during that cup run. Despite several attempts since, Birmingham have never lifted the FA Cup trophy.
Below is a detailed look at several of the major fifth-round ties.
Wolves vs Liverpool
Struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers recently boosted their morale with a surprising victory over Liverpool FC in the Premier League. Their manager Rob Edwards hopes the win could spark a late push to escape relegation.
However, Wolves remain at the bottom of the league table and face a difficult challenge against Liverpool once again. For Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot, the FA Cup represents an important opportunity to salvage the season.
Liverpool recently suffered a setback in the race for Champions League qualification and cannot afford another disappointing result. Sutton believes Wolves will fight with determination but predicts Liverpool could still fall victim to an upset.
Sutton’s prediction: Wolves 2-1 Liverpool
Knight’s prediction: 2-2 after extra time, Liverpool win on penalties
Mansfield vs Arsenal
League One side Mansfield Town produced one of the shocks of the previous round by defeating Burnley FC at Turf Moor thanks to a stunning free-kick from Louis Reed.
Despite that impressive result, their task becomes far tougher against Arsenal FC, who are expected to field a strong squad even if some players are rested.
Mansfield have struggled in recent league matches and sit only a few points above the relegation zone. While the occasion will be special for their supporters, Sutton believes Arsenal’s quality will prove too strong.
Sutton’s prediction: Mansfield 0-2 Arsenal
Knight’s prediction: 0-3
Wrexham vs Chelsea
Another fascinating tie sees Wrexham AFC host Chelsea FC at Stok Cae Ras.
Wrexham’s rise through the divisions has been remarkable. After three consecutive promotions, the club now sits near the top of the EFL Championship and dreams of yet another step up.
Manager Phil Parkinson has built a team capable of competing with stronger opponents, but Chelsea’s quality could still make the difference.
Chelsea recently impressed with a win over Aston Villa, with striker Joao Pedro scoring a hat-trick.
Sutton expects Chelsea to progress comfortably, while Knight believes Wrexham could cause a late upset.
Sutton’s prediction: Wrexham 1-3 Chelsea
Knight’s prediction: Wrexham 1-0 Chelsea
Newcastle vs Manchester City
The most anticipated tie of the round features Newcastle against Manchester City. Both clubs also have important European matches approaching, with Newcastle set to face FC Barcelona and City preparing to play Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has received criticism during the season, but the team remains competitive in several competitions. Their league campaign has been inconsistent, partly due to the transfer uncertainty surrounding star striker Alexander Isak.
City, led by Pep Guardiola, have dominated many domestic competitions in recent years and already defeated Newcastle several times this season.
However, Sutton believes Newcastle’s strong home support could help them edge a close contest.
Sutton’s prediction: Newcastle 2-1 Manchester City
Knight’s prediction: Newcastle 2-3 Manchester City
Fulham vs Southampton
At Craven Cottage, Fulham FC host Southampton FC.
Southampton have been in excellent form in the Championship, winning six of their last seven matches. Nevertheless, Sutton expects Fulham’s Premier League quality and home advantage to prove decisive.
Manager Marco Silva could guide Fulham on a deep FA Cup run, something the club has never achieved before despite reaching the final in 1975.
Sutton’s prediction: Fulham 3-0 Southampton
Knight’s prediction: Fulham 1-2 Southampton
Port Vale vs Sunderland
Lower-league side Port Vale FC have enjoyed a memorable cup run, reaching the fifth round for the first time in three decades.
However, they face a tough challenge against Sunderland AFC, who are enjoying an impressive season in the Premier League.
Sutton believes Sunderland’s strength and momentum will be too much for Port Vale to overcome.
Sutton’s prediction: Port Vale 0-4 Sunderland
Knight’s prediction: 0-3
Leeds vs Norwich
At Elland Road, Leeds United meet Norwich City.
Leeds manager Daniel Farke may prioritise Premier League survival over cup success. Meanwhile, Norwich boss Philippe Clement has transformed his team into one of the Championship’s most in-form sides.
Sutton believes Norwich could pull off a surprise victory.
Sutton’s prediction: Leeds 1-2 Norwich (after extra time)
Knight’s prediction: 1-1 after extra time, Leeds win on penalties
West Ham vs Brentford
The final tie sees West Ham United host Brentford FC at London Stadium.
West Ham are currently battling relegation and could rest several key players. Sutton suspects they may prioritise their league survival rather than the FA Cup.
Brentford, managed by Keith Andrews, could use the competition as an alternative path to European qualification.
Sutton’s prediction: West Ham 0-2 Brentford
Knight’s prediction: West Ham 0-1 Brentford
The FA Cup remains one of football’s most unpredictable competitions, where underdogs often challenge giants. With several intriguing ties scheduled, this weekend’s matches could deliver drama, shocks, and memorable moments.
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