The FA Cup fifth round returns with six ties across four days, as Premier League contenders and ambitious challengers battle for quarter-final places.
Cup fixtures often compress margins, yet several favourites dominate the markets. Liverpool (1.39) travel to Wolverhampton Wanderers after suffering a surprise league defeat days earlier, while Arsenal are heavy favourites (1.06) away to third-tier Mansfield Town.
Elsewhere, Chelsea (1.33) face a confident Wrexham A.F.C. side enjoying strong league form, and Manchester City (1.85) meet Newcastle United in the round’s tightest betting contest. Other ties include Fulham (1.52) hosting Championship challengers Southampton and West Ham United (2.80) facing Brentford in an evenly balanced Monday fixture.
Wolves vs Liverpool – The Molineux
Wolverhampton Wanderers host Liverpool just days after producing one of the shocks of the Premier League round with a 2-1 win at Molineux. That result gives Wolves belief heading into the cup tie, despite a difficult league season that has left them rooted near the bottom of the table.
Liverpool arrive as 1.39 favourites, with Wolves at 6.00 and the draw 4.70. BTTS Yes at 1.70 reflects Wolves’ renewed attacking confidence, but Liverpool’s stronger squad depth and experience in knockout competitions make them the expected winners.
Arne Slot’s side have been comfortable in earlier FA Cup rounds, beating Barnsley 4-1 and Brighton 3-0. Wolves, meanwhile, have eliminated Shrewsbury and Grimsby to reach this stage and will aim to extend a rare run of momentum.
Mansfield Town vs Arsenal – Field Mill
Mansfield Town face a daunting task against Arsenal, who are priced at 1.06 to progress. The clubs last met in 1929, making this one of the round’s most unusual fixtures historically.
Arsenal have advanced from their last 15 FA Cup ties against teams from the third tier or lower. Mansfield, appearing in the fifth round for the first time since 1974-75, will look to replicate their historic 1969 run when they reached the quarter-finals.
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Wrexham vs Chelsea – Racecourse Ground
Wrexham continue their cup journey against Chelsea, with the visitors strong favourites at 1.33.
Wrexham enter the tie in encouraging form and remain competitive in the Championship promotion race. However, Chelsea have progressed comfortably in the competition so far, defeating Charlton 5-1 and Hull 4-0, highlighting their attacking depth.
Newcastle United vs Manchester City – St James’ Park
Newcastle United host Manchester City in the most balanced tie of the round. City are priced at 1.85, with Newcastle at 3.25.
The sides have already met multiple times this season, adding familiarity to the encounter. Newcastle remain strong at St James’ Park, but City’s control in possession and scoring power continue to shape their cup ambitions.
Fulham vs Southampton – Craven Cottage
Fulham welcome Southampton with the hosts priced at 1.52.
Fulham have regained form in recent weeks with league victories and FA Cup progression. Southampton, pushing for Championship promotion, arrive unbeaten in several matches and could test Fulham’s defensive organisation.
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West Ham vs Brentford – London Stadium
West Ham United and Brentford close the round in what could be the most open contest. Brentford are slight favourites at 2.22, with West Ham at 2.80.
Both sides required extra time in earlier rounds, suggesting this tie could again be decided by small margins. With attacking threats on both teams, BTTS markets are likely to attract attention.
The takeaway
The fifth round mixes strong favourites with several competitive ties. Upsets remain possible, but Premier League depth could ultimately shape the quarter-final lineup.
Photo: REUTERS/Peter Powell
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