Supercomputer Predicts FA Cup Third Round 2025/26

A supercomputer has predicted the result of every game taking place in the third round of the FA Cup. And some big upsets could lie in store for a few teams, including Chelsea and newly appointed manager Liam Rosenior.

England’s oldest cup competition sees Premier League teams enter the tournament this weekend, hoping that they can advance to the final at Wembley come May. But a route to glory is far from guaranteed, as unexpected giant killings can often occur against the odds.

That was perfectly encapsulated in the 2025 final, as Crystal Palace managed to get the better of Manchester City to lift the cup for the first time in their history. But teams lower down the football pyramid can also cause trouble for the bigger sides, with Wrexham’s past 2-1 win against Arsenal and Bradford City’s victory against Chelsea just two of the biggest upsets in the competition’s history.

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Huge Upset Predicted in Third Round of 2026 FA Cup

In an attempt to see where Davids might usurp Goliaths in the upcoming third round, The Sun have booted up a supercomputer and simulated every FA Cup match this weekend. The majority of games are set to take place on Saturday, and it’s here where there are the biggest number of surprises.

Although there are victories for the likes of Crystal Palace, Manchester City and Fulham, Tottenham are forecast to lose against fellow Premier League club Aston Villa, while Everton are expected to lose 2-1 at home to high-flying Sunderland.

In terms of teams getting one over clubs in divisions above them, non-league sides Weston-super-Mare and Boreham Wood are predicted to advance to the fourth round with wins against Grimsby Town and Burton Albion. But two Premier League clubs are also predicted to be eliminated at the hands of Championship teams.

West Ham are at home to Queens Park Rangers, but it’s the visitors who have been projected to thump the Irons 4-1. But the shock of the weekend comes at The Valley, where Charlton Athletic are predicted to beat Chelsea on penalties following a 1-1 draw. Rosenior, who will be managing the Blues for the first time since his arrival from Strasbourg, will be desperate for a win to get him on side with the west London faithful.

No Surprises Predicted in Sunday and Monday FA Cup Games

Although Chelsea and West Ham’s predicted eliminations could well shock viewers, the supercomputer expects normal service to resume for the rest of the third round. Sunday’s games will see Arsenal travel to Portsmouth while Man United host Brighton, but neither big six side is expected to lose their respective tie.

However, the fixture between Swansea City and West Brom is projected to be a memorable one. After a 2-2 draw between the Championship sides, the supercomputer thinks that the Baggies will advance after a thrilling 8-9 penalty shootout.

Concluding the round are Liverpool, who host League One Barnsley at Anfield. But the Tykes are predicted to be on the receiving end of a thumping, as Arne Slot’s Reds run out 4-0 winners.