Arsenal Plays Wigan in FA Cup

Arsenal, a top team, will play against Wigan Athletic, a team from a lower league, in the FA Cup. The game is on February 15, 2026. Arsenal is expected to win, but cup games can have surprises.
By Newsroom | Football, England |

A Clash of Contrasts: Premier League Aspirations Meet League One Struggles

The stage is set for an intriguing FA Cup fourth-round encounter as Arsenal, a formidable Premier League side, hosts Wigan Athletic, currently navigating a challenging season in League One. This fixture presents a classic cup tie narrative: the established giant-slayer versus the hopeful giant, with the allure of potential upsets ever-present. Arsenal, deeply involved in multiple competitions, aims to continue their quest for silverware, while Wigan, battling relegation in their own league, seeks a moment of glory to define their campaign. The match is scheduled for Sunday, February 15, 2026, with a 4:30 PM kick-off in the UK.

Context of the Fixture

This FA Cup fourth-round tie pits Arsenal, a club with a rich history in the competition, against Wigan Athletic, a team known for its resilience and past giant-killing exploits. Arsenal's recent form includes a 1-1 draw against Brentford in their last outing, a result that highlighted both their attacking intent and defensive vulnerabilities. Wigan, meanwhile, is grappling with difficulties in League One, having recently suffered a 1-2 defeat to Reading. Despite their league struggles, Wigan has shown an ability to raise their game in the cup, having previously overcome Preston North End in a surprising 1-0 victory in the third round.

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The historical head-to-head record strongly favors Arsenal, with 16 recorded wins against Wigan. However, the unpredictable nature of the FA Cup means that past results are not always a definitive predictor of future outcomes. Arsenal's manager, Mikel Arteta, faces a few fitness concerns heading into the match. Kai Havertz has a new muscle problem, and William Saliba has been ill. Martin Odegaard also picked up a knock in the recent Brentford match, despite only just returning from a prior absence. For Wigan, James Carragher is a doubt, having missed their last two games due to a knock.

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Broadcasting and Accessibility

For supporters in the United Kingdom, the match will be televised live on TNT Sports 1, with coverage commencing at 4:00 PM. Those wishing to stream the game can do so via the Discovery+ app and website, or through the TNT Sports channel on Amazon Prime Video. Radio coverage will be available on talkSPORT. Multiple international broadcasters are also scheduled to carry the match, indicating its broader appeal.

Arsenal's Cup Pedigree and Squad Depth

Arsenal enters this fixture with a clear objective: to progress to the next round and maintain their pursuit of silverware across multiple competitions. The club boasts a strong historical record in the FA Cup, a competition they have won multiple times. Manager Mikel Arteta is expected to utilize his squad depth, allowing for rotation given the demanding schedule. Key factors cited for Arsenal's advantage include their home advantage at the Emirates Stadium, the quality of their rotation options, and midfield control expected from players like Rice and Zubimendi. The team's FA Cup experience under Arteta is also considered a significant asset.

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Arsenal's depth and experience in cup competitions are highlighted as key strengths.

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Wigan's Fight for an Upset

Wigan Athletic finds themselves in a contrasting situation, fighting for survival in League One. Their FA Cup run, however, has provided a much-needed respite and a chance to challenge a prominent opponent. The Latics have shown an ability to defy expectations, as evidenced by their third-round victory against Preston North End. This match represents an opportunity for them to achieve a significant "giant-killing" upset. Despite their struggles, their progression in the cup suggests a team capable of performing on the big stage.

Wigan's FA Cup success indicates an ability to perform above their league form.

Team News and Potential Lineups

Arsenal is facing a number of fitness concerns. Kai Havertz is noted as being out due to a muscle problem. William Saliba is listed as a doubt, while Martin Odegaard suffered a knock. Other players mentioned as potentially unavailable include Mikel Merino and Max Dowman.

Read More: Michael Owen Asks if Viktor Gyokeres Can Help Arsenal Win

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Wigan's team news also includes doubts over James Carragher. Baba Adeeko, Luke Robinson, and Harry McHugh are also listed with potential absences.

While confirmed lineups are not yet available, some predictions suggest the following for Arsenal: Kepa; White, Mosquera, Calafiori, Lewis-Skelly; Eze, Norgaard, Rice; Madueke, Jesus, Martinelli. Wigan's predicted lineup is: Tickle; Fox, Aimson, Kerr; Hunt, Weir, Smith, Murray; Bettoni, Wright; Taylor.

Several key players for both Arsenal and Wigan are flagged as doubtful or unavailable due to injury and illness.

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Expert Predictions and Match Facts

Pre-match analysis suggests a strong likelihood of an Arsenal victory. One prediction posits an Arsenal win with a scoreline of 3-0, with likely goalscorers identified as Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Eberechi Eze. Another prediction anticipates an Arsenal 4-0 victory, citing their home advantage, the form of their opponents, and the availability of "fresh, fearsome legs" within their squad. Arsenal is considered the strong favorite to win this tie against their League One opponents.

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The consensus among previews is a comfortable victory for Arsenal.

Conclusion and Implications

The FA Cup fourth-round tie between Arsenal and Wigan Athletic presents a stark contrast in current league standing and form. Arsenal, a top-tier team with significant resources and experience, is heavily favored to advance. Their ability to rotate their squad and maintain a high level of performance, even with several players sidelined or doubtful, underscores their strength. Wigan, however, will undoubtedly approach the match with the ambition to cause an upset, drawing confidence from their previous third-round win and the inherent magic of the FA Cup.

The implications for both clubs are clear. For Arsenal, a win is expected and necessary to maintain momentum in their pursuit of multiple trophies. A loss would represent a significant blow to their ambitions and would undoubtedly lead to scrutiny. For Wigan, a strong performance, even in defeat, could provide a significant morale boost for their ongoing league campaign. The outcome hinges on Arsenal's ability to overcome any lingering fatigue and potential defensive frailties, against Wigan's capacity to produce a disciplined and inspired performance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the Arsenal vs Wigan FA Cup match?
The match is on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
Q: Where can I watch the game?
In the UK, it will be on TNT Sports 1 and can be streamed on Discovery+. Check local listings for other countries.
Q: Are there any injuries for Arsenal?
Yes, Kai Havertz has a muscle problem, and William Saliba and Martin Odegaard have knocks or illness.
Q: What is Wigan's situation?
Wigan is in League One and trying to avoid going down. They won their last FA Cup game.
Q: Who is expected to win?
Most people think Arsenal will win because they are a stronger team playing at home.