FA Cup LIVE: Build up to macclesfield vs brentford and fifth-round draw
Match context
The FA Cup fourth-round meeting between Macclesfield and Brentford is set for a 19: 30 GMT kick-off. The tie pits a sixth-tier Macclesfield side that produced one of the competition's most remarkable shocks in the previous round against Premier League Brentford, who arrive in strong league form. The winners will travel to West Ham in the fifth round.
Macclesfield: the underdog story
Macclesfield's progression to this stage carried wide attention after they eliminated reigning FA Cup holders Crystal Palace in the third round. The victory prompted scenes of jubilation in the town and within the club. Chairman Rob Smethurst reflected on the aftermath, saying he had watched the match again after returning home, and described the occasion as “one of those experiences that I'm never going to forget. ” He added, “For me I think we won the FA Cup. ”
Brentford form and expectations
Brentford come into the fixture on the back of strong league performances, sitting seventh in the Premier League. Their recent results, including a 1-1 draw with Arsenal and a routine win against Championship opposition in the cup, underline the gulf in resources and regular competition level between the two clubs. Brentford will be seeking a routine progression to the last 16, though the cup's history cautions against underestimating an inspired lower-league side.
Team news and players to watch
Preview coverage has published likely line-ups. Macclesfield selections include Luke Matheson — noted for a high-profile goal against Manchester United while with Rochdale — alongside John Rooney and captain Paul Dawson, figures who have been central to the club's recent successes. From the Brentford side, key names mentioned in pre-match lists include midfield and forward options such as Mads Janelt, Mathias Jensen and goalscoring threats who have helped keep the visitors competitive in the top flight.
Atmosphere and build-up at Moss Rose / Leasing. com Stadium
Coverage from the ground captures an atmosphere buoyed by belief and celebration. Reporters note that Macclesfield fans have been following the draw and chanting “West Ham away” in anticipation of a potential fifth-round trip. Phil McNulty, reporting from the ground, highlighted the mood of optimism among supporters while also underlining the work that remains for the home side.
Club background and broader narrative
Macclesfield's contemporary story has drawn human interest as well as sporting focus. The current club formed after the demise of Macclesfield Town in October 2020, and the rebirth has been framed as part of a broader recovery that includes the personal journey of owner Rob Smethurst. Pre-match features have recounted Smethurst's unconventional path to club ownership and the community impact of the team's cup run.
How to follow and what is at stake
Live commentary is available on Radio 5 Live and online the live page. The tie has implications beyond the immediate result: a giant-killing would extend Macclesfield's run and provide a high-profile away tie in the next round, while a Brentford victory would see the Premier League side consolidate progress toward the fifth round and maintain their focus on domestic cup ambitions.
Final notes
On paper, Brentford are clear favourites given their top-flight status and current league standing, but Macclesfield's recent upset over Crystal Palace has shown the FA Cup's capacity for surprise. The match will be watched closely by neutrals and supporters alike as both clubs pursue different but meaningful objectives in the competition.
