2023-2024 FA Cup third round preview

The Emirates FA Cup has always been a competition known for its magic and unpredictability, and the anticipation for the third round draw is no exception. As the football world gears up for this much-awaited event, fans from all over are already buzzing with excitement, eager to see which matchups will grace the tournament's next stage. Upcoming weekend will be the start of the third round, the time of the tournament when the big guns join. Therefore we use this article to preview this biggest cup tournament in the World.

The third round proper draw, which took place recently, has thrown up a plethora of intriguing ties that promise to deliver plenty of drama, memorable moments, and the occasional giant-killing act. With Premier League heavyweights, Championship contenders, and lower-league underdogs set to collide, football enthusiasts can hardly wait for the action to kick off.

Headlining clashes

As always, some fixtures stand out more prominently than others, and this year's draw did not disappoint in that regard. The mouthwatering clash between two footballing giants, Arsenal and Liverpool, is undoubtedly the most eye-catching fixture of the third round. These two powerhouses of English football will go head-to-head in a match that promises goals, intensity, and high drama. Fans around the world will be glued to their screens to witness this marquee showdown.

Another encounter that has captured the imagination of football enthusiasts is the face-off between Manchester City and Huddersfield Town. While City boasts a star-studded squad and a rich recent history of success, Huddersfield Town will be looking to draw inspiration from the FA Cup's rich tradition of giant-killing acts.

Chelsea, the defending FA Cup champions, will also be in the spotlight as they face Preston North End. The Blues are expected to field a strong lineup, but the underdog Preston North End will be eager to make their mark in the competition.

Underdog’s

One of the enduring charms of the FA Cup is the chance for smaller clubs to take on and sometimes defeat their more illustrious counterparts. This year's draw provides several opportunities for David to take on Goliath.

Aldershot Town, currently plying their trade in the National League, will be hoping for a fairy tale run when they face West Bromwich Albion. Similarly, non-league side Sutton United will have their work cut out for them as they travel to Plymouth Argyle. These fixtures embody the essence of the FA Cup, where anything can happen on any given day.

Intriguing storylines

Beyond the headline fixtures and underdog tales, there are several other intriguing storylines to look out for in the third round proper of the Emirates FA Cup.

The Championship versus Premier League matchups always provide an extra layer of intrigue. Stoke City taking on Brighton & Hove Albion and Middlesbrough facing Aston Villa are two such contests that could easily go either way.

Leeds United, back in the Premier League after a long absence, will be keen to make a statement in the FA Cup, starting with their trip to Peterborough United.

Finally, the prospect of a North East derby between Sunderland and Newcastle United has set pulses racing in the region. This is a fixture steeped in history, rivalry, and passion, and it's sure to be a highlight of the third round.

FA Cup tickets

As the FA Cup's third round proper draw promises to deliver a smorgasbord of footballing excitement, fans are counting down the days until the action unfolds. Sales of FA Cup tickets are going through the roof at the moment. Even FA Cup final tickets are already bought by those who really believe in their team to reach Wembley.