The anticipation surrounding the FA Cup fourth round draw has reached a fever pitch, with fans eagerly awaiting the matchups that will shape the competition's next stage. The draw, held on January 12, 2026, has delivered some exhilarating fixtures, including a high-profile clash between Arsenal and Wigan Athletic. As the competition progresses, the stakes are higher than ever, with both top-tier clubs and lower-league underdogs vying for glory.
One of the standout fixtures from the draw is the home tie between Arsenal and Wigan Athletic. The Premier League leaders, fresh off their 4-1 victory at Portsmouth, will face a challenging test against the League One side, who have a storied history in the FA Cup, having lifted the trophy in 2013. This matchup promises to be a thrilling contest, with Arsenal looking to assert their dominance while Wigan seeks to cause another upset in the competition. This matchup is sure to be a highlight of the fourth round, with fans eagerly awaiting the clash between these two teams.
Another notable fixture is the all-Premier League encounter between Aston Villa and Newcastle United. This matchup pits two teams with rich histories and passionate fan bases against each other, promising an intense battle on the pitch. Aston Villa, known for their strong performances in recent seasons, will be looking to secure a win against a resilient Newcastle side, adding to the excitement of the fourth round.
The FA Cup fourth round draw has also given lower-league teams a chance to shine. Macclesfield, who have already secured a notable victory over a Premier League team in the previous round, will face Brentford in what promises to be a challenging but rewarding matchup for the League One side. This encounter highlights the FA Cup's reputation for producing memorable moments and surprises, with lower-league teams often proving to be formidable opponents against top-tier clubs.
Liverpool or Barnsley will embark on a journey to Brighton in the fourth round. The result of this match could potentially lead to a dramatic turn of events, with either team bringing their unique strengths to the pitch. This fixture emphasizes the unpredictability of the FA Cup, where every match is a fresh opportunity for underdogs to shine and top teams to face unexpected challenges.
In conclusion, the FA Cup fourth round draw has set the stage for an exciting round of matches, with high-stakes confrontations between top-tier clubs and lower-league underdogs. The clash between Arsenal and Wigan Athletic is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated fixtures, promising a thrilling contest between the Premier League leaders and a historically significant League One side. As the competition progresses, the FA Cup continues to captivate fans with its unpredictability and the opportunity for memorable moments. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exhilarating fourth round of the FA Cup.
