Will Mansfield Upset Arsenal in the FA Cup Fifth Round? Full Draw Inside!

Mansfield Town will compete in the fifth round of the FA Cup for the first time since 1975, facing off against 14-time winners Arsenal after their thrilling victory over Burnley. This remarkable achievement for the League One side highlights the unpredictable nature of the competition, with several intriguing matchups set for the weekend of 7-8 March.

Last updated: 27 February 2024 (BST)

What’s happening now

Mansfield Town's historic progression to the FA Cup fifth round marks a significant moment for the club, who last reached this stage in 1975. Following their 2-1 comeback win against Burnley, the Stags are set to host Arsenal, a team with a rich history in the tournament. This match not only represents a chance for Mansfield to make headlines but also a daunting challenge against a Premier League giant.

Key takeaways

• Mansfield Town will face Arsenal in the FA Cup fifth round, their first appearance at this stage in 49 years.
• The matches are scheduled for the weekend of 7-8 March 2024.
• Other notable fixtures include Newcastle versus Manchester City and Wrexham against Chelsea.

Timeline: how we got here

The road to the FA Cup fifth round has been eventful for Mansfield Town. Here’s a brief timeline leading up to this moment:

• 3 January 2024: FA Cup third round draw takes place.
• 6 January 2024: Mansfield Town defeats a lower-league team to advance.
• 27 January 2024: The Stags knock out Championship side in the fourth round.
• 24 February 2024: Mansfield Town secures a stunning 2-1 victory against Premier League's Burnley.
• 27 February 2024: FA Cup fifth round draw places Mansfield against Arsenal.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The latest development is Mansfield Town's draw against Arsenal, which adds excitement and tension to this historic cup run. Their recent performance against Burnley showcased their resilience and ability to compete under pressure.

What was already established

It was already known that Mansfield Town had the potential to pull off upsets in the earlier rounds, but their advancement to the fifth round against top-flight opposition solidifies their status as a team to watch. Their performance in the fourth round set the stage for this unexpected encounter.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

This match presents a unique opportunity for football fans, particularly those supporting Mansfield Town. It encourages local support and could lead to increased footfall in the area surrounding the stadium. Additionally, fans may gather for viewing parties, boosting local pubs and businesses.

Businesses and jobs

The match against Arsenal is likely to result in heightened activity for local businesses, especially those in hospitality and retail. Mansfield Town's success on the pitch can draw in crowds and generate revenue for the local economy, creating a buzz in the community.

Policy and regulation

As the FA Cup continues, clubs involved will need to comply with regulations regarding safety, ticketing, and crowd management, particularly when hosting a high-profile fixture against a prominent team like Arsenal. Authorities will monitor the event closely to ensure compliance with any necessary health and safety protocols.

Numbers that matter

• 1: This is Mansfield Town's first appearance in the FA Cup fifth round since 1975.
• 2: Goals scored by Mansfield in their comeback against Burnley in the last round.
• 14: Times Arsenal has won the FA Cup, making them one of the most successful clubs in the tournament's history.
• 49: Years since Mansfield last reached this stage of the competition.
• 8: Teams from the Premier League competing in this round, highlighting the strength of the top-flight teams.

Definitions and jargon buster

• FA Cup: An annual knockout football competition in men's football in England.
• Premier League: The top level of the English football league system.
• League One: The third tier of English football, below the Championship and above League Two.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans should focus on ticket availability and travel plans for the match against Arsenal, as demand is likely to be high. Preparation for this historic event will be essential to ensure a positive experience.

Medium term (1–6 months)

In the aftermath of the match, Mansfield Town will need to assess their squad and performance as they continue their League One campaign. Success in the FA Cup could influence recruitment and financial stability for the club.

Signals to watch

• Ticket sales and fan engagement leading up to the match.
• Media coverage and public interest in Mansfield Town's journey.
• Performance of both teams in league fixtures prior to the FA Cup match.

Practical guidance

Do

• Purchase tickets early to secure a spot at the match.
• Support local businesses by dining or shopping before the game.
• Follow updates on the team's performance and news via official channels.

Don’t

• Leave travel arrangements to the last minute, as they may become congested.
• Disregard safety protocols in place for match day.
• Assume tickets will be available on the day of the match.

Checklist

• Check the date and time of the match.
• Confirm ticket purchase and seating details.
• Plan transport to and from the stadium.
• Review safety regulations or guidelines set by the club.
• Engage with fellow fans on social media platforms.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Mansfield Town's journey has been inspiring, potential risks include injuries to key players as they navigate both the FA Cup and their league commitments. Furthermore, if the club faces a particularly strong Arsenal squad, the outcome may not favour the Stags. Additionally, weather conditions could impact match day attendance and overall atmosphere.

Bottom line

Mansfield Town's advancement to the FA Cup fifth round is a testament to their determination and skill. This match against Arsenal presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the club, its fans, and the local community. As the date approaches, excitement will build, and the implications of this match will resonate beyond the pitch.

FAQs

When is the Mansfield Town vs Arsenal FA Cup match?

The FA Cup match between Mansfield Town and Arsenal is scheduled for the weekend of 7-8 March 2024.

How did Mansfield Town qualify for the fifth round?

Mansfield Town qualified for the fifth round by defeating Burnley 2-1 in a remarkable comeback during the fourth round.

What is the significance of this match for Mansfield Town?

This match marks Mansfield Town's first appearance in the FA Cup fifth round since 1975, highlighting a significant milestone for the club and its supporters.