The FA Cup fourth round kicks off this weekend, promising an action-packed lineup for football fans across the United Kingdom. Matches featuring Premier League giants such as Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham will be neatly broadcast on both the BBC and ITV, ensuring viewers have plenty of options to catch all the excitement.
Among the standout fixtures is Manchester United's clash against Leicester City, taking place at Old Trafford. United, the current cup holders, overcame Arsenal through penalties to advance to this round and will look to take advantage of their home ground against the Foxes, managed by former United star Ruud van Nistelrooy. The match is set for Friday night at 8pm, live on ITV1.
Match coverage kicks off at 7.30pm GMT, providing ample pre-match analysis and insights for those tuning in. The fourth round features several noteworthy games, all scheduled to entice fans with compelling narratives and rivalries. Check out the complete television schedule below.
On Saturday, Leyton Orient faces Manchester City at 12.15pm, broadcast live on BBC One. Following this, Birmingham City will battle Newcastle United at 5.45pm, also on BBC One. The evening winds down with Brighton hosting Chelsea at 8pm, appearing on ITV4.
Sunday features three exciting clashes, beginning with Blackburn Rovers against Wolves at 12.30pm on BBC Red Button and BBC iPlayer. Later, Plymouth Argyle will challenge Liverpool at 3pm, available on ITV1, before Aston Villa takes on Tottenham at 5.35pm on BBC One.
The action wraps up on Monday with Doncaster Rovers against Crystal Palace at 7.45pm on BBC iPlayer, culminating with Exeter City facing Nottingham Forest at 8pm on Tuesday, broadcast on ITV1.
MANCHESTER UNITED PREPARATIONS
Manchester United enters this round with mixed results and hopes of keeping their cup campaign alive. Despite impressive wins over Arsenal, they have struggled domestically this season, suffering defeats at home which have put their positions precariously close to relegation threats. Fans are anxious to see whether this match will help to restore some much-needed confidence.
For Leicester City, who are also eager for redemption following their own recent struggles, this match poses both a challenge and opportunity. After punching above their weight and winning the FA Cup for the first time two years ago, they seek to recapture their form under Van Nistelrooy.
For fans outside the UK or those traveling, there are options to watch the match online. ITV’s streaming service, ITVX, will provide live coverage, with ESPN offering the game to US viewers and Sportsnet doing the same for Canadian audiences. Most streams are accessible through subscriptions priced reasonably for fans eager to follow their teams internationally.
The comprehensive television schedule enables fans to plan their weekend around the FA Cup fixtures, allowing them to cheer for their teams without missing any of the action. Whether it’s Manchester united battling Leicester or the excitement of other fixtures, this weekend guarantees plenty of football drama.
STAYING CONNECTED
For those unable to tune directly to the TV, staying connected through social media and sports news outlets will provide updates as the matches progress. Most broadcasters also offer live text commentary to keep fans buzzed about every thrilling moment.
With fierce competition arising during the FA Cup's knockout rounds, every match is not just about winning; it’s also about the pride, the history, and the chance for lower-ranked teams to make their own mark. The mix of established and up-and-coming teams showcases the competitive spirit of English football.
Overall, the FA Cup fourth round boasts action and excitement, making it one of the highlights of the football calendar. No matter where you turn for coverage—be it television, streaming services, or social media—this weekend’s action is sure to keep football lovers on the edge of their seats.