FA Cup Quarter-finals: Manchester City vs Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea have easier paths

The FA Cup draw has set up a fiery clash between Manchester City and Liverpool in the quarter-finals, while Arsenal and Chelsea face lighter challenges.

After the conclusion of the Round of 16, the FA Cup organizers conducted the draw for the quarter-finals. The draw quickly produced the most notable matchup between Manchester City and Liverpool, two giants of English football. This showdown is considered an "early final" of the tournament, promising a top-level contest.

Manchester City will have a significant advantage playing at their home ground, Etihad Stadium, against Liverpool. Pep Guardiola's team has been superior to their opponent in the 2025/2026 season. Specifically, the Manchester side has defeated "The Kop" in both encounters this season, creating favorable momentum ahead of the FA Cup rematch.

Meanwhile, the two London representatives, Arsenal and Chelsea, have relatively easier paths as they face lower-rated opponents. Arsenal will travel to St. Mary's to face Southampton, currently playing in the Championship. This is seen as a good opportunity for "The Gunners" to advance deep in the oldest cup competition in England.

Chelsea also has a favorable draw, playing at their home ground Stamford Bridge against Port Vale. The League One representative is the "surprise" of this year's tournament, having progressed to the quarter-finals. However, considering the strength and caliber, "The Blues" are still rated superior to the opponent from England's third tier.

The remaining quarter-final matchup is between West Ham and Leeds United. "The Hammers" are the last team to secure a spot in the top eight after a dramatic victory over Brentford earlier today. The two teams drew 2-2 after 120 minutes before West Ham showed composure in the penalty shootout, winning 5-3.

With the quarter-final pairings now determined, the FA Cup quarter-finals promise exciting developments, especially the major clash between Manchester City and Liverpool. Meanwhile, Arsenal and Chelsea have a significant opportunity to advance further if they capitalize on their advantage against lower-rated opponents, and West Ham and Leeds are also poised to create surprises in the round for the top eight teams.