The FA Cup’s Fifth Round Promises an Open Competition
The FA Cup’s fifth round is set to commence, and the competition is shaping up to be an open affair. Liverpool’s shock exit in the fourth round against Plymouth, a second-tier side, was a massive upset, as the runaway Premier League leaders succumbed to the underdogs.
Liverpool’s elimination is not the only surprise. Arsenal fell in the third round, while Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur will also be spectators this weekend. With four of the Premier League’s ‘Big Six’ already out, the trophy could see a new name etched onto it in the 2024/25 season.
Which of the last 16 #EmiratesFACup captains will be lifting the trophy at the end of the season? 🏆 pic.twitter.com/aHth2VWjV0
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) February 25, 2025
The dominance of the ‘Big Five’ (Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United) in the FA Cup has been remarkable, with 29 of the last 33 trophies going to that quintet. However, this year, the landscape may shift.
Potential Contenders
Newcastle are considered one of the leading contenders, should they overcome a tough tie against Brighton this weekend. The Magpies have already competed in the Champions League last season and reached the Carabao Cup final this year, and they are eager to end their 70-year wait for a domestic trophy.
Aston Villa, who last won the FA Cup in 1957, could also be in the mix. Manager Unai Emery has led the team to the Champions League’s knockout rounds, but he is yet to taste success in English football, despite his impressive Europa League and Ligue 1 titles.
Nottingham Forest, currently third in the Premier League, are another team with a chance to break the ‘Big Five’ stranglehold. The Tricky Trees last won the FA Cup in 1959, and with a well-drilled squad, they have a chance to reach Europe’s elite next season.
Outsiders with a Chance
Teams like Brighton, Bournemouth, Fulham, and Crystal Palace, who have never won a major trophy, could also seize the opportunity to etch their name on the FA Cup. With the big guns already out and the remaining elite teams not at their fearsome best, these clubs have a cautious optimism.
An end to the ‘Big Five’ dominance could breathe new life into the world’s oldest domestic competition, which would be a refreshing story.
Call to Action:
Don’t miss the exciting action as the FA Cup’s fifth round unfolds. Stay tuned for more updates and insights on the journey towards the coveted trophy.
