Predictions for the Third Round of the FA Cup

The early days of January holds the scent of excitement from the FA Cup, the world's oldest national football tournament, as teams compete for spots in the subsequent round.

Manchester City, the current title holders, along with all other Premier League teams, commence their 2023/24 FA Cup journey this weekend, eager to evade the disappointment common with an early tournament departure.

A number of enticing matches were revealed in the third round draw, including the first Tyne-Wear derby between Sunderland and Newcastle since 2016, and a clash between Premier League champions Arsenal and Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium.

This article sheds light on the 2023/24 FA Cup third round, specifically how it could unfold for teams seeking a place in the fourth round.

The third-round match list kicks off with Crystal Palace welcoming Everton at Selhurst Park on Thursday evening.

While Roy Hodgson and Sean Dyche prioritize Premier League stability with their respective teams currently placed 14th and 17th, this may result in a more thrilling match.

The previous meeting between these sides in November was an exciting one, with a late goal from Idrissa Gana Gueye ensuring Everton’s 3-2 victory.

The weekend commences with three matches on Friday evening, two of which are between top-flight teams.

A welcome respite from league action, Brentford, who have lost their past five games, face Wolves, who won 4-1 in their recent match at Gtech Community Stadium.

After their triumph over Arsenal, Fulham will look to replicate their Carabao Cup semi-finals success in their encounter with Championship outfit Rotherham United.

With Son Heung-min unavailable, Tottenham commence their interim period by hosting Burnley in north London. Despite winning 5-2 in their earlier match at Turf Moor, due to injuries, Tottenham's opponents may sense an opportunity for a surprise victory.

With 19 games featured, Saturday showcases a vast array of FA Cup fixtures.

The 12:30pm fixtures include four matches, after which the Tyne-Wear derby between Sunderland and Newcastle kicks off.

Maidstone United, currently placed the lowest in the tournament, presents real upset potential against Stevenage, a League One side.

The 15:00 slot hosts the commencement of Brighton's FA Cup journey with an away game at Stoke, and matches from Bournemouth and Sheffield United.

Battling tough opponents, Chesterfield and Eastleigh face Watford and Newport County, from the Championship and League Two divisions, respectively.

Despite a Carabao Cup semi-final match up next, Chelsea aims to proceed to the FA Cup fourth round by defeating Preston. Preston's slipping to a mid-table Championship position after only two wins in their last ten games gives more hope to Chelsea.

Manchester City, involved in several trophy defenses this season, is anticipated to have an easy game against Huddersfield Town, who have managed only five league victories in the 2023/24 season.

Also in action at 14:00 on Sunday are in-form West Ham United, who have to deal with the visit of Bristol City, while Leeds United will want a straightforward win when they travel to Peterborough United.

Wrexham's global popularity was boosted by an FA Cup run to the fourth round last year and they'll need to overcome higher division opposition again in Shrewsbury Town if they are to enjoy similar success in the tournament this time around.

One big-hitter will make an early FA Cup exit after Arsenal were drawn at home with Liverpool. Mikel Arteta won his first piece of managerial silverware with the Gunners in this competition in 2019, having previously bagged it as a player in 2013/14 and 2014/15. However, the Reds have lifted the trophy more recently, succeeding at Wembley in 2022.

The third-round slate finishes - aside from any potential replays - on Monday when the permanently shaken Manchester United try to avoid a new nadir when they battle 2013 winners Wigan Athletic.

Will Grigg, now of Chesterfield, helped the Latics scoop one of the all-time FA Cup upsets in 2018 with the winner against Man City, though Shaun Maloney's side approach this tie off the back of just one win in their last six games.

However, the Red Devils have the exact same recent record and with injuries still proving mightily difficult for manager Erik ten Hag to navigate, don't be surprised if this fixture rounds off the weekend's action with a shocking - or not so shocking - result.