7M - Fulham vs Southampton: FA Cup Fifth Round Preview

On March 8, 2026, Fulham will host Southampton at Craven Cottage for the fifth round of this season's FA Cup. The Cottagers secured their place in this tie after a 2-1 victory over Stoke City in the previous round, while the Saints progressed by narrowly beating Leicester City 2-1 after extra time.

Match Overview

Fulham recently saw their three-game winning streak come to an end with a home loss to West Ham United. With little to compete for in the Premier League, sitting 10th in the table, the FA Cup presents a significant opportunity for Marco Silva's side to vie for silverware. The club has never won the FA Cup, and their only final appearance ended in a 1-0 defeat to West Ham in 1975. With their recent performance in the competition being underwhelming—only reaching the quarter-finals once in the last 15 years—they hope to alter their fortune against the Championship side Southampton, against whom they've not lost in their last four encounters.

Southampton, sitting seventh in the Championship, are unbeaten in their last nine matches in all competitions. They managed to turn around their fortunes following a rough patch at the end of 2025 and are now competing strongly. The Saints edged Doncaster Rovers 3-2 before defeating Leicester City in their last match, advancing to this stage of the FA Cup for five of the last six seasons.

Team News

Fulham will definitely miss Brazilian winger Kevin Santos, who is sidelined for the season due to ankle surgery. Additionally, talisman Harry Wilson is doubtful for this match and will undergo a late fitness test after missing the last game with an ankle issue. If Wilson is unable to play, Samuel Chukwueze is expected to step into his position after a full 90 minutes in the last match.

Southampton could find themselves without forward Jay Robinson, who has been recovering from a thigh injury. While he might not make the squad this weekend, manager Tonda Eckert anticipates his return soon. Mads Roerslev Rasmussen and Welington will also miss out due to injury recovery.

Predicted Lineups

Fulham may likely field: Leno; Tete, Diop, Bassey, Robinson; Iwobi, Berge; Bobb, Smith Rowe, Chukwueze; Muniz.

Southampton could line up as: Peretz; Bree, Harwood-Bellis, Stephens, Manning; Charles, Bragg; Matsuki, Azaz, Scienza; Larin.

Prediction

We anticipate a close contest with Fulham edging out Southampton 2-1. Given Fulham's good record against the Saints and the motivation to return to winning ways after their recent loss, they will be determined to advance to the quarter-finals for the second consecutive season.

This match promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams strive for a place in the next round of the FA Cup.