Wrexham’s fairytale run in the FA Cup continues, but their next challenge will be their toughest yet: a home tie against Premier League giants Chelsea. The draw, revealed on Monday, has sent ripples of excitement – and a healthy dose of disbelief – through the Welsh club and its Hollywood owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. Reynolds’ reaction, reportedly “X-rated” according to the London Evening Standard, underscores the magnitude of the occasion.
The fifth-round clash will see Wrexham, currently competing in League Two, welcome Chelsea to the Racecourse Ground, marking the first time the Welsh club has reached this stage of the competition in 29 years. Their journey to the last 16 included a notable victory over Nottingham Forest in the third round, and a more recent win against Championship side Ipswich Town on Friday, as reported by the Associated Press. Wrexham’s success is particularly remarkable given their ambitions extend beyond cup glory; they are also vying for promotion to the Premier League.
A Tough Test for Chelsea
For Chelsea, the tie presents a potential banana skin. The eight-time FA Cup winners, who recently thrashed Hull City 4-0 in their own fourth-round fixture, will be heavily favored, but Wrexham’s home advantage and recent form suggest a difficult encounter. Chelsea lost three consecutive FA Cup finals from 2020 to 2022, and will be keen to avoid another upset. The club acknowledged the draw on their official website, noting the challenge that awaits them in Wales, according to Chelsea’s official site.
FA Cup Fifth Round Draw: Key Matchups
The FA Cup fifth round draw produced several other intriguing matchups. Arsenal will travel to League One side Mansfield Town, continuing their pursuit of a potential quadruple, having already secured their place in the Carabao Cup final and progressing to the Champions League knockout stages. Manchester City, aiming for a fourth successive FA Cup final appearance, will face Newcastle United in an all-Premier League clash at St James’ Park. Leeds United will host Norwich City, while Brentford will take on West Ham United.
Full Draw Details
- Fulham vs. Southampton
- Port Vale or Bristol City vs. Sunderland
- Newcastle United vs. Manchester City
- Leeds United vs. Norwich City
- Mansfield Town vs. Arsenal
- Wolverhampton Wanderers vs. Brighton & Hove Albion
- Wrexham vs. Chelsea
- Nottingham Forest vs. Liverpool
The ties are scheduled to be played during the weekend of February 28th – March 2nd, 2026, according to TheFA.com.
Wrexham’s Hollywood Story Continues
The draw is a significant moment for Wrexham, a club that has gained international attention since being acquired by actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. Their ownership has been chronicled in the documentary series “Welcome to Wrexham,” bringing the club and its community to a global audience. The FA Cup run provides another captivating chapter in their story, and the prospect of facing Chelsea will undoubtedly generate immense interest.
The match is set to be a sell-out, and the atmosphere at the Racecourse Ground is expected to be electric. Wrexham’s players and fans will relish the opportunity to test themselves against a Premier League powerhouse, and the tie represents a chance to further enhance the club’s growing reputation. The draw also provides a boost to the local economy, with an influx of visitors expected for the match.
The FA Cup fifth round promises a compelling mix of David-versus-Goliath encounters and intriguing Premier League clashes. For Wrexham, the journey continues, and the dream of lifting the FA Cup remains alive, fueled by Hollywood glamour and a resilient spirit.
The next step for both Wrexham and Chelsea will be preparation for their respective league matches before turning their attention to the FA Cup tie. Further details regarding ticket sales and broadcast information will be announced in the coming days.
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