Birmingham City Survive Late Cambridge United Fightback in FA Cup Thriller

FA Cup Drama at the Abbey Stadium

In a captivating FA Cup third-round encounter on 10th January 2026, Birmingham City secured a hard-fought 2-3 victory over Cambridge United at the Cledara Abbey Stadium. The match showcased the magic of the FA Cup, with League Two Cambridge nearly pulling off a remarkable comeback against their Championship opponents.

Birmingham Dominate Before Late Drama

Birmingham opened the scoring when Kai Wagner’s powerful drilled attempt deflected past Jake Eastwood on the half hour mark, following sustained pressure from the visitors. Kyogo Furuhashi doubled Birmingham’s lead in the 42nd minute, giving the Blues a comfortable 2-0 advantage at half-time.

The Championship side appeared to have sealed their passage to the fourth round when Marvin Ducksch nestled a first-time effort home on the 77th minute, putting Birmingham 3-0 ahead with time running out.

Cambridge’s Spirited Fightback

However, Cambridge United refused to surrender. Substitute Sullay Kaikai pulled one back two minutes later with a low attempt past Beadle, before adding his second in the 89th minute to set up a dramatic finale. Despite finding themselves 3-0 behind with 12 minutes remaining, Kaikai’s late double set up a grandstand finish, though the League Two side couldn’t find an equaliser during stoppage time.

Significance for Both Clubs

Cambridge United manager Neil Harris used the defeat to fuel his desire to push his side forward in their League Two promotion campaign. Cambridge, aiming to extend their unbeaten run, had conquered Championship leaders Coventry City in their previous match – wait, that was Birmingham. The U’s can take pride in their performance against opposition two divisions higher, whilst Birmingham progress to face further FA Cup challenges as they navigate their Championship season.