Chelsea v Manchester United: Women’s FA Cup fifth round – live

Guardian Sport

by Xaymaca Awoyungbo

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Chelsea and Manchester United lock horns in a highly anticipated clash of the Women’s FA Cup fifth round at Kingsmeadow. This encounter is a rematch of last season's final, where Chelsea secured a 3-0 victory to complete a domestic treble under manager Sonia Bompastor. While Chelsea remains competitive across multiple fronts, their recent league defeats against Arsenal and Manchester City have raised questions about their ability to repeat the same dominance. Despite these setbacks, Chelsea has shown resilience by bouncing back with significant wins against Tottenham and Liverpool, narrowing the gap between them and United in the Women’s Super League (WSL). This game is seen as a pivotal moment for both sides. For Chelsea, it's an opportunity to reaffirm their title credentials, while Manchester United aim to capitalize on their strong form and push closer to the top of the league table. The match also holds significance for the FA Cup, where both teams are determined to advance further in what has already been a successful campaign for Chelsea. With tensions high and stakes equally divided, fans are eagerly awaiting a thrilling contest that could shape the narrative of this season's competition. This clash matters because it showcases the growing competitive landscape of women’s football, attracting global attention. The game不仅是a test of skill but also a display of mental strength and adaptability for both teams. Follow the action as Chelsea and Manchester United fight for supremacy in this crucial match that promises to deliver excitement and define their season trajectories.

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/22/2026