FA Cup Today: Historic Upsets Rock Third Round as Magic Returns
Introduction: The FA Cup’s Timeless Appeal
The FA Cup today showcases why England’s oldest football competition remains one of the most thrilling tournaments in world football. The Emirates FA Cup third round proper takes place this weekend, with 32 ties scheduled between Friday 9 and Monday 12 January 2026, marking the entry of the Premier League’s 20 teams into the fold for the third round of the 2025-26 FA Cup tournament. This stage of the competition consistently delivers the drama, upsets, and David-versus-Goliath moments that have defined the tournament for generations.
Historic Upset: Macclesfield’s Giant-Killing Achievement
The FA Cup today produced what many are calling the greatest upset in the competition’s storied history. Macclesfield FC delivered the greatest upset in Emirates FA Cup history as they bridged a gap of 117 league places to stun defending champions Crystal Palace, becoming the first Non-League side to beat the Cup holders in 108 years. Yeremy Pino’s brilliant free-kick gave Crystal Palace hope of an unlikely comeback but they ran out of time, the 2-1 Macclesfield win sparking wild celebrations. The National League North side’s remarkable journey exemplifies the magic that makes the FA Cup so special.
Premier League Giants in Action
Beyond the shock results, the FA Cup today featured several high-profile Premier League clashes. Tottenham Hotspur have already succumbed to the challenge of Aston Villa in a powerful third-round tie, demonstrating that even top-flight teams are vulnerable in cup competition. Manchester City matched their biggest ever margin of victory in a FA Cup tie against Exeter City, whilst West London trio Chelsea, Fulham and Brentford all reached the fourth round with wins against Championship opposition, with Chelsea beating Charlton Athletic 5-1 and Fulham coming from a goal down to beat Middlesbrough 3-1.
Penalty Drama and Lower League Heroes
The FA Cup today also delivered nail-biting penalty shootouts. Newcastle United won the penalty shootout against Bournemouth 7-6 after a 3-3 draw in 120 minutes, whilst Sunderland knocked out Everton as keeper Robin Roefs saved all three of Everton’s penalties, while Sunderland scored all three of theirs to progress. These dramatic moments reinforce why the FA Cup remains must-watch television.
Looking Ahead: Fourth Round and Beyond
The Emirates FA Cup is the oldest domestic football cup competition in the world, featuring sides from all levels of the football pyramid, and today’s results prove the tournament’s unpredictability remains intact. The FA Cup’s fourth round draw will be held on Monday, January 12, where the remaining teams will discover their next opponents. For football fans, the FA Cup today has delivered everything expected and more—proving once again that in this competition, anything is possible. The magic of the cup is alive and well, with underdogs rising and favourites falling in spectacular fashion.