Women's FA Cup preview: Chelsea, Man United do battle again - ESPN

ESPN

by Emily Keogh

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Women's FA Cup fifth round promises thrilling action as top-tier teams battle for a spot in the quartets. The standout clash sees Chelsea hosting Manchester United, renewing their rivalry after their recent encounters in major finals. Both teams are chasing silverware but face tough challenges in the WSL and Champions League, making this FA Cup tie a pivotal moment in their season. With only one of them advancing, other teams will hope to capitalize on the opportunity to avoid facing top-tier opposition in the next round. Meanwhile, mid-table teams like Everton, Liverpool, West Ham United, and Brighton are eyeing cup success as a lifeline for their league campaigns. The Merseyside Derby between Everton and Liverpool could shape their season trajectories, while West Ham, under new manager Rita Guarino, aims to build momentum after escaping relegation threats. Similarly, Brighton seeks a result to halt their recent slide in the league standings. The FA Cup schedule has drawn criticism with some matches shifted to Monday nights, particularly affecting players involved in the Asian Cup and reducing school-age attendance. While aiming to boost viewership, these scheduling decisions may limit potential audience engagement compared to weekend fixtures. This season's Women's FA Cup is a crucial test for teams looking to secure silverware, with opportunities for underdog sides like Oxford United and Chatham Town to cause upsets against WSL opposition. The competition also highlights the growing importance of cup success for teams unable to challenge for the league title, offering a chance to boost morale and end-of-season earnings. For fans of women's football, this weekend's action delivers high-stakes rivalries, dramatic matchups, and potential shocks that keep the tournament unpredictable. With Chelsea vs. Manchester United setting the stage, and other derbies and battles across the country, the Women's FA Cup continues to deliver excitement and stakes for all involved.

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/19/2026