Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal booked their places in the FA Cup quarter-finals after dramatic victories in the fifth round on Saturday.
Manchester City fought back to defeat Newcastle United 3–1 at St James’ Park, while Chelsea edged Wrexham 4–2 after extra time and Arsenal survived a scare to beat Mansfield Town 2–1.
City had to recover after falling behind early when Harvey Barnes fired Newcastle ahead in the 18th minute. Pep Guardiola’s side responded before half-time through Savinho, whose effort levelled the score in unusual fashion.
Egypt forward Omar Marmoush then took control of the contest in the second half. He struck two goals, both assisted by Matheus Nunes, to complete the comeback and send City into the quarter-finals for the eighth consecutive season.
Guardiola praised his team’s performance afterwards, describing it as their best display at Newcastle during his tenure.
Chelsea also needed extra time to progress after being pushed to the limit by Championship side Wrexham in a thrilling contest.
Wrexham twice took the lead through Sam Smith and a deflected effort, but Chelsea equalised both times before the match went to extra time. Alejandro Garnacho gave the Premier League side the lead in the 97th minute, and Joao Pedro sealed the 4–2 win late on.
Wrexham’s hopes of a historic upset faded after midfielder George Dobson was sent off, leaving them to finish the match with ten men.
Arsenal also endured a difficult afternoon against League One side Mansfield Town but eventually progressed with a 2–1 victory.
Noni Madueke put the Premier League leaders ahead before Mansfield responded with an equaliser. Eberechi Eze then produced the decisive goal in the second half to send the Gunners into the last eight.
The results mean Premier League heavyweights remain firmly on course in the competition as the race for the FA Cup trophy intensifies.
