Full Breakdown
FA Cup Fourth Round: Key Matches and Viewing Information
2/12/2026, 8:09:34 PM
Overview of the Fourth Round Matches
The FA Cup fourth round is set to commence on February 13, 2026, featuring a total of 16 matches spread over four days. The opening fixtures include Wrexham facing Ipswich Town and Hull City hosting Chelsea, both scheduled for February 13 at 7:45 PM. This round showcases the enduring appeal of the FA Cup, with significant viewership anticipated across various platforms.
Viewing Figures and Broadcast Details
Recent data indicates that the FA Cup continues to attract substantial audiences. The third round match between Brighton and Manchester United garnered an average of 876,000 viewers, surpassing TNT Sports' Premier League games this season. Overall, the third round attracted nearly five million viewers across 22 matches broadcast on TNT Sports and its streaming service, Discovery+. For the fourth round, TNT Sports will broadcast 11 matches, including the aforementioned fixtures, while the BBC will share coverage of select games, enhancing accessibility for viewers.
Key Matches to Watch
The fourth round features several notable matchups:
- Wrexham vs. Ipswich Town: This match is particularly significant as Wrexham previously upset Nottingham Forest in the last round. The historical context adds intrigue, recalling their 1995 FA Cup upset against Ipswich when they were two divisions lower.
- Hull City vs. Chelsea: Another highlight, this match pits Premier League side Chelsea against Championship team Hull City, promising an exciting contest.
Broadcast Platforms
Fans can watch the matches through various platforms:
- TNT Sports: Available via subscription, with options to add it to existing BT Broadband contracts or through the Discovery+ app.
- BBC One and BBC iPlayer: Selected matches will be available for free, including the Hull City vs. Chelsea game.
- Radio Coverage: BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra will provide audio coverage for those unable to watch.
Upcoming Matches Schedule
The complete schedule for the fourth round is as follows:
- February 13:
- Wrexham vs. Ipswich Town (7:45 PM, BBC Wales, TNT Sports)
- Hull City vs. Chelsea (7:45 PM, BBC One, TNT Sports)
- February 14:
- Burton Albion vs. West Ham United (12:15 PM, TNT Sports)
- Aston Villa vs. Newcastle United (5:45 PM, BBC One, TNT Sports)
- Liverpool vs. Brighton (8:00 PM, TNT Sports)
- February 15:
- Birmingham City vs. Leeds United (12:00 PM, TNT Sports)
- Arsenal vs. Wigan Athletic (4:30 PM, TNT Sports)
- February 16:
- Macclesfield Town vs. Brentford (7:30 PM, TNT Sports)
Conclusion
The FA Cup fourth round promises to deliver thrilling football and significant viewership, reflecting the competition's rich history and ongoing popularity. With multiple platforms offering coverage, fans have ample opportunities to engage with the matches, whether through traditional broadcasting or streaming services.
