FA Cup: City Triumphs, Mansfield Shocks, Villa Reduced to Ten
The FA Cup showcased dramatic moments on February 14, 2026, with significant surprises and controversies across several matches. Aston Villa faced off against Newcastle United, while League One Mansfield Town stunned Premier League side Burnley. Southampton also triumphed over Leicester in a tense encounter.
Aston Villa vs. Newcastle United
Aston Villa took the lead against Newcastle through a contentious goal from Tammy Abraham in the 14th minute. Replays showed that Abraham was offside, but VAR was not available for this round of the competition.
- Score at Half-Time: Aston Villa 1 – 0 Newcastle United
- Controversial Moments:
- Marco Bizot, Villa’s goalkeeper, received a red card for a reckless tackle on Jacob Murphy.
- Lucas Digne narrowly avoided a similar fate after a dangerous challenge four minutes prior.
With Villa reduced to ten men, Newcastle sought to capitalize on their advantage in the second half, aiming for an equalizer.
Mansfield Town’s Stunning Upset
Mansfield Town made headlines by eliminating Burnley with a 2-1 victory, marking a significant upset in FA Cup history. This win allowed Mansfield to advance past a top-flight team for the first time since 1969.
- Match Details:
- Mansfield Town scored two goals despite initially going behind to Burnley.
- Rhys Oates equalized early in the second half.
- Mansfield’s determination led to a crucial win in the fourth round.
Southampton vs. Leicester City
Southampton faced Leicester City in another exciting match, eventually winning 2-1 after extra time. The game was tightly contested, with both teams battling for every opportunity.
- Match Highlights:
- Southampton scored the winner deep into extra time through James Bree.
- The match was evenly poised at 1-1 before Bree’s decisive strike.
Standout Performances
This round of the FA Cup not only highlighted the competitive spirit of the tournament but also illustrated the unpredictable nature of cup football.
With these thrilling matches, fans are eager to see what the next rounds of the FA Cup will bring. The surprises and drama of the competition continue to captivate audiences, reaffirming its place in English football culture.
