Burnley vs Mansfield Town: FA Cup preview, team news, odds and prediction

Burnley host Mansfield Town in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday, Feb. 14, with kick-off set for 10: 00 AM ET. The clash pits a Premier League side fighting to arrest a slide that threatens relegation against a League One underdog chasing another cup scalp. Here’s the latest on form, selection, tactics and a look at the likely outcome.

Form lines and momentum

Burnley arrive at Turf Moor buoyed by a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Crystal Palace in the Premier League. That result offered a rare lift during a difficult campaign and gives the Clarets momentum heading into the cup tie. Nonetheless, relegation remains a distinct possibility for the club, so this match presents both a chance for a morale boost and a scheduling complication in a busy period.

Mansfield Town are without a win in their last five matches, though four of those ended in draws. The Stags did produce a notable third-round upset, edging Sheffield United 4-3 to reach this stage, and will back themselves to make life uncomfortable for a Burnley side that will rotate.

Team news: Ward-Prowse start, rotation and versatility

January signing James Ward-Prowse is set to start after appearing as a substitute in the comeback win. Burnley’s manager praised Ward-Prowse’s experience and the value of minutes as the midfielder integrates into the squad. The manager also stressed a balance in selection, confirming rotation to freshen the team and give game time to players who need it.

Josh Laurent’s versatility was singled out as particularly important; able to operate in multiple positions, he offers tactical flexibility and reliability whenever selected. Expect a mixed XI that blends first-team elements with players needing minutes.

Mansfield’s challenge and manager Nigel Clough

Mansfield arrive as a well-organized League One outfit under Nigel Clough. The Stags’ cup form this season has proven they can carve out chances and, importantly, maintain discipline through tight contests. Their memorable 4-3 win over higher-level opposition in the last round shows they can handle high-pressure knockout football.

The visitors will likely set up compactly, aim to frustrate in midfield and exploit set-piece opportunities or transitional moments. Past encounters between the two managers include a 2016 draw when they faced one another in different roles, adding a layer of familiarity to the tactical chess match.

Tactical outlook

Burnley will aim to control possession and impose a higher tempo than Mansfield are used to seeing. Given the cup context and Burnley’s league concerns, expect emphasis on quality in possession and sharpness on the counter when doors open. Mansfield should remain disciplined defensively, looking to counter-attack and make the most of any lapses or set-piece situations.

Rotation could affect Burnley’s cohesion early on; the Clarets will need to manage energy and focus to avoid giving the visitors a foothold. If Ward-Prowse and Laurent hit their strides, Burnley’s quality in the final third should be decisive.

Betting snapshot and prediction

Bookmakers generally give Burnley the edge at home against a mid-table League One side. The Clarets’ Premier League-level talent and recent win provide enough reason to expect progression, but rotation and Mansfield’s cup form mean an upset can’t be entirely ruled out.

Prediction: Burnley to progress to the fifth round. A 2-0 victory is the most likely scoreline, with Burnley’s experience and attacking options proving the difference once the home side settles into the game.

Kick-off is at 10: 00 AM ET on Saturday, Feb. 14 — an early start for the FA Cup fourth round showdown at Turf Moor.