The excitement surrounding the FA Cup continues as the fifth round kicks off from February 28, 2025, showcasing how deeply embedded this tournament is within the football culture of the UK. It’s not just another football contest; it’s about passion, rivalry, and the dream of lifting one of the most cherished trophies.
This year, the BBC will provide live coverage of the matches, making sure fans won’t miss out on any action. Live broadcasts will be made available through BBC One, BBC iPlayer, and BBC Radio 5 Live, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all matches taking place over the weekend. The stage is set for exciting clashes, and for many clubs, this could be their moment to shine.
One of the most anticipated matches sees Millwall travel to face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on March 1. The match kicks off at 12:15 PM GMT, with Millwall’s manager, Alex Neil, expressing his eagerness to take on Premier League opposition. "It will be a high-quality game with good players on the pitch, and hopefully we can do ourselves justice," Neil shared with BBC Radio London. Millwall has been experiencing positive momentum under Neil’s leadership, winning six of 13 games since he took over, and they are eager to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since the 2018-19 season.
On the same Saturday, another intriguing fixture will feature Preston North End facing Burnley, also at 12:15 PM. This match marks the first FA Cup encounter between the two historic clubs, both of which have their own ambitions and unique narratives behind them. Preston is seeking to make it to the quarter-finals for the first time since the 1965-66 season, and their fans will be hoping for something special amid the rivalry.
Meanwhile, defending champions Manchester United will be taking on Fulham on Sunday, March 2, at Old Trafford. Coverage begins at 4:00 PM. Gary Lineker will present the match, which features significant stakes for the Red Devils as they aim to defend their title. United has faced challenges this season, but their experience shines through as they stand ready to push for another FA Cup triumph. Highlights of their performance and analysis will be delivered by former players Micah Richards, Danny Murphy, and Wayne Rooney, with commentary from Steve Wilson and Alan Shearer.
But one of the most captivating narratives involves Brighton as they prepare to meet Newcastle United on March 2, just weeks before the Carabao Cup final. Danny Welbeck shares his enthusiasm, calling this match “a great opportunity” for his side to progress. "It’s going to be really difficult, but we want to be involved in these types of games," Welbeck conveyed to BBC Radio Sussex. Brighton aims to build on their recent successes and hopes to capture the club's first major trophy by moving forward.
Interestingly, the FA Cup also presents unique challenges for teams like Plymouth Argyle. Scheduled to face Manchester City, Plymouth has made headlines already this season by eliminating top-flight clubs, having knocked out Brentford and Liverpool. Manager Steven Schumacher is fully aware of the history and significance attached to this upcoming match, saying, "To win the FA Cup is massive; it’s great, I really enjoy it. The magic of the FA Cup lives on." But City brings immense pressure, boastingdominating statistics, including winning their last 18 FA Cup matches against lower division teams with an aggregate score of 69-9.
Every match of this round has its own story, history, and excitement. Another highlight is the live commentary available throughout the weekend on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds, allowing fans to engage with the action from anywhere. Viewers can look forward to full match analyses, interviews, and highlight reels available on BBC Sport’s online platforms as well.
The coverage culminates on Saturday, with highlights featured on MOTD: FA Cup, showcasing the drama and unforgettable moments fans will witness. Football enthusiasts will not just capture the spirits of the games live, but they will enjoy them repeatedly through recap shows. With each passing round, the stakes rise, and so does the thrill, as teams compete to carve their names onto the FA Cup trophy.
Fans will be actively keeping up with the narratives through BBC Sport’s website and app, which will deliver up-to-date scores, news, and highlights. The FA Cup remains entrenched within its rich historical and cultural fabric, building dreams and stories as clubs battle for glory on the hallowed pitch. This round promises to be packed with gripping encounters as teams face the heart of competitive football. Who will emerge victorious, fulfilling their dreams and advancing to the coveted quarter-finals? Only time will tell as the magic of the FA Cup lives on this season!