The FA Cup Draw has produced exciting Third Round fixtures as Premier League teams join the competition, setting up high-stakes clashes with lower-league sides

The Football Association on Monday released the Third Round fixtures of the 2025–26 Emirates FA Cup, confirming a series of high-stakes pairings as Premier League teams enter the competition.

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The FA Cup Draw unveiled matchups that will see top-flight clubs face lower-league opponents in what is traditionally one of the most thrilling stages of the tournament.

Premier League sides join at this round, meeting clubs that advanced through the initial stages of the historic competition.

The fixtures reveal encounters that will test underdogs and challenge established contenders, fuelling anticipation among fans across England.

Manchester United will host Brighton and Hove Albion, while Arsenal travel to Portsmouth in one of the standout ties.

Chelsea head to Charlton Athletic, and Manchester City welcome Exeter City to the Etihad Stadium. Tottenham Hotspur face Aston Villa in what promises to be a fiercely contested encounter.

Other notable fixtures include Liverpool against Barnsley, Everton versus Sunderland and Newcastle United at home to Bournemouth.

Championship and League One clubs have also drawn intriguing opponents, positioning themselves for potential upsets that characterise the magic of the FA Cup.

Full fixtures were released following Monday’s draw held at Wembley, with the FA confirming that detailed scheduling will follow in consultation with broadcast partners.

The Third Round is expected in early January, continuing one of football’s most enduring traditions.

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The draw marks another powerful reminder of the competition’s unique ability to unite clubs across divisions, igniting fresh hope for underdogs and setting the stage for unforgettable moments.