New Delhi: The FA Cup’s third round lived up to its drama, offering thrilling moments, emotional narratives, and dominant displays. Everton started a new chapter at home after a managerial shake-up. Meanwhile, Fulham showcased their Premier League class, whereas Cardiff City emerged victorious in a tightly contested Championship battle. Let’s take a look at the action from Goodison Park, Craven Cottage, and Bramall Lane.
Everton kicks off post-Dyche era with victory
Everton began a new era just hours after the dismissal of manager Sean Dyche as they secured a 2-0 victory over League One side Peterborough United at Goodison Park. With interim managers Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman at the helm, the Toffees avoided embarrassment and overcame a spirited Peterborough side to advance to the fourth round.
The club’s new owners, the Friedkin Group, just four hours before the match sacked Dyche. Beto broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute, grabbing a perfectly timed through ball from Harrison Armstrong. The forward expertly rounded goalkeeper Nicholas Bilokapic and slotted the ball into an empty net, and eased the home crowd’s nerves.
Cool. Calm. Collected.
Beto rounds the keeper to open the scoring for @Everton 🔵#EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/Wlte7djS6e
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) January 9, 2025
Peterborough are currently 47 places below Everton in the English football pyramid but showed resilience and nearly scored first when Cian Hayes unleashed a shot destined for the bottom corner, only for Jarrad Branthwaite to make a last-ditch clearance.
The second half brought more challenges for Everton, with Armando Broja suffering a serious ankle injury late in regulation time, which led to a lengthy delay. Despite the setback, Iliman Ndiaye sealed the win from the penalty spot in the 98th minute after Jadel Katongo fouled Branthwaite.
Calm from the spot 🥶
Iliman Ndiaye makes it look easy for @Everton 😮💨#EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/RMCS9Aclar
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) January 9, 2025
Adding to the night’s storyline, veteran Ashley Young came on as a substitute for Everton, but his son, Tyler, who plays for Peterborough, remained on the bench, denying fans a historic father-versus-son moment.
Fulham’s ruthless display sinks Watford
At Craven Cottage, Fulham delivered a statement performance with a dominant 4-1 win over Championship side Watford. The Premier League side wasted no time and took the lead in the 26th minute. Watford’s Rocco Vata levelled the match in the 33rd minute, leading to a 1-1 tie at halftime.
In the second half, the Cottagers took charge on the field, with Raul Jimenez converting a penalty to extend their lead. However, Fulham showcased their class further as Joachim Andersen and Timothy Castagne added goals to thrash Watford 4-1.
Fulham turned on the style in the second half to beat Watford 4-1 at Craven Cottage. Goals from Muniz, Jimenez, Andersen, and Castagne secured their spot in the #EmiratesFACup fourth round 💪 pic.twitter.com/MlNUFhNSTm
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) January 9, 2025
Watford struggled to match the Cottager’s attacking fluency. Fulham possessed 72% possession, while Watford had just 28%, highlighting Fulham’s dominance.
Cardiff City outshines Sheffield United
In another fixture, Cardiff City narrowly defeated Sheffield United 1-0 to secure their place in the next round. The match was a hard-fought battle, but despite lacking possession, City managed to beat United.
Cian Ashford’s solo effort sealed the win for @CardiffCityFC as they reached the #EmiratesFACup fourth round with a 1-0 win over Sheffield United ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/PRWSBxo8XN
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) January 10, 2025
The deciding moment of the match came in the 19th minute when Cian Ashford scored the match’s only goal. Cardiff’s defensive resilience proved crucial as they successfully nullified Sheffield United’s attacking threats to hold onto the slim lead.
Everton beats Peterborough 2-0 post-Dyche sacking, Fulham dominates Watford 4-1, and Cardiff edges Sheffield United 1-0 in FA Cup third-round drama. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
