In the FA Cup third round, several lower-league teams achieved significant upsets against higher-division opponents. Macclesfield, placed 117 positions below Crystal Palace in the football pyramid, stunned the Premier League side with a 2-1 victory, securing one of the competition's most unexpected results. Simultaneously, Wrexham advanced by defeating Nottingham Forest 4-3 on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw, marking a notable achievement for the club since its takeover by celebrity owners. Another upset saw League One club Wigan Athletic defeat Championship side Preston North End 1-0, a result that prompted criticism of the Deepdale pitch by Preston's manager.
Despite these upsets, several Premier League and Championship teams avoided elimination. Manchester City dominated Exeter City with a 10-1 win, while Wolves secured a comfortable 6-1 victory over Shrewsbury. Brentford, Fulham, Burnley, Leicester City, and Southampton also advanced to the fourth round with victories over their respective opponents. Oxford United and Port Vale also secured wins, with Oxford progressing after a penalty shootout against MK Dons.