Manchester City to Host Liverpool in FA Cup Quarter-Final Draw Trend Summary
The Emirates FA Cup quarter-final draw took place on March 9, 2026, confirming the final eight teams remaining in the competition. Manchester City will host Liverpool in a high-profile clash at the Etihad Stadium, while League Two side Port Vale travel to face Chelsea. These fixtures are scheduled to be played across the weekend of Saturday, March 21, 2026.
TL;DR
- Manchester City will face Liverpool at home in the standout tie of the round.
- League Two Port Vale secured a major away fixture against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
- The quarter-finals are set for the weekend of March 21-22, 2026.
- Winning teams will progress to the semi-finals held at Wembley Stadium.
What Happened
The draw for the sixth round of the Emirates FA Cup was conducted following the conclusion of the fifth-round fixtures. On the evening of March 9, 2026, the Football Association confirmed the four matches that will determine the semi-finalists. Manchester City was drawn as the home team against Liverpool, ensuring one of the tournament favorites will be eliminated before the final four. Simultaneously, Arsenal was drawn to play away against Southampton at St Mary's Stadium, and West Ham United will host Everton in an all-Premier League encounter.
Key Developments
Port Vale, the lowest-ranked team remaining in the competition, will travel to London to face Chelsea. This fixture represents the only match in the quarter-finals featuring a club from outside the top two divisions of English football. The full confirmed lineup for the quarter-finals is as follows:
- Manchester City v Liverpool
- Chelsea v Port Vale
- Southampton v Arsenal
- West Ham United v Everton
The FA has confirmed that all four matches will be broadcast live in the UK, with specific kick-off times and television assignments to be announced following discussions with police and local authorities. Winners of these ties will receive £450,000 from the competition's prize fund.
Why This Matters
The draw ensures a significant shift in the favorites for the trophy. With Manchester City and Liverpool facing each other, the path to the final opens up for the other six clubs. For Port Vale, the match at Stamford Bridge provides a substantial financial windfall through gate receipts and broadcasting fees. Additionally, the outcome of these matches will dictate the schedule for the semi-finals, which are currently slated for April 18 and 19, 2026.
What Happens Next
The quarter-final fixtures are scheduled to take place on Saturday, March 21 and Sunday, March 22, 2026. Fans can check for official ticket information and hospitality packages via the official FA Cup ticket portal. Following the conclusion of these matches, the draw for the semi-finals will be held, with the matches taking place at Wembley Stadium in April.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the FA Cup quarter-finals be played?
The matches are scheduled for the weekend of March 21, 2026. Exact dates and times for each of the four fixtures will be confirmed shortly after television selections are finalized.
Who is the lowest-ranked team left in the FA Cup?
Port Vale is the lowest-ranked team remaining in the 2025-26 competition. The League Two side will face Premier League club Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in their quarter-final match.
Where will the FA Cup semi-finals be held?
The winners of the quarter-final matches will progress to the semi-finals, which are held at Wembley Stadium. Those matches are currently scheduled for mid-April 2026.
Is there a replay if the quarter-final matches end in a draw?
No, there are no replays in the quarter-finals. If a match is level after 90 minutes, it will go to extra time and, if necessary, a penalty shootout to decide the winner on the day.
How much prize money do the winners get?
Clubs that win their quarter-final match will earn £450,000 from the competition prize fund. This is in addition to the prize money accumulated from winning previous rounds.