Hull vs Chelsea: FA Cup Check Carries Narrative and Strain
Chelsea head to Humberside tonight for an FA Cup fourth spherical tie that carries extra subtext than the fixture record initially suggests. Hull await on the MKM Stadium, flying excessive within the Championship and keen to check themselves towards Premier League opposition.
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That is the place romance meets scrutiny. Hull are fourth within the second tier and concentrating on the play offs, whereas Chelsea arrive needing reassurance after a irritating 2-2 draw with Leeds in midweek. That outcome, surrendering a 2-0 lead at Stamford Bridge, has sharpened focus across the squad’s resilience forward of this FA Cup project.
Kick Off Particulars and Broadcast Data
Hull vs Chelsea is scheduled for a 7.45pm GMT kick off on February 13, 2026 on the MKM Stadium. For viewers within the UK, the FA Cup tie will likely be proven stay on BBC One and TNT Sports activities 1, with protection beginning at 7pm GMT. Supporters may stream the match by way of the Discovery+ app and web site, whereas BBC iPlayer will supply free entry with a sound TV licence.
The FA Cup retains a sure readability. It strips away league context and presents a easy query, are you able to deal with the second.
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Staff Information Shapes FA Cup Strategy
Chelsea’s preparation has been formed by health updates. Captain Reece James returned to coaching after sickness dominated him out towards Wolves and Leeds, although he was described as “nonetheless below the climate”, leaving his involvement unsure. Marc Cucurella is sidelined with a hamstring downside.
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There may be, nonetheless, reinforcement. Mamadou Sarr, recalled from his mortgage at Strasbourg, is predicted to characteristic in some capability. Filip Jorgensen may resume goalkeeping duties after recovering from a knock, whereas Tosin Adarabioyo has additionally returned to coaching following his personal hamstring challenge. Jamie Gittens suffered a hamstring tear towards West Ham, but Romeo Lavia’s return to the grass affords encouragement.
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Hull have their very own issues. Charlie Hughes and Manchester United loanee Toby Collyer are doubts. Cody Drameh is again in coaching, whereas supervisor Sergej Jakirovic could look to latest additions equivalent to Paddy McNair, Kieran Dowell, Lewis Koumas and Yu Hirakawa to bridge any gaps towards their Premier League guests.
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Hull Momentum Meets Chelsea Expectation
Hull progressed previous Charlton 5-1 within the earlier spherical and have been largely spectacular within the Championship. Their six match unbeaten run was halted by Bristol Metropolis final day out, however confidence stays intact.
Chelsea’s FA Cup marketing campaign started emphatically. They swept Charlton apart in a 5-1 victory that mirrored attacking readability and ruthless ending. The problem now’s consistency.
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Hull at residence won’t merely oblige. They’ve organisation, athleticism and a way of event. But that is exactly the kind of fixture Chelsea should negotiate if they’re critical about restoring authority. After the Leeds collapse, the FA Cup supplies a right away likelihood to recalibrate.
Prediction discussions are inclined to orbit type and division. Hull are robust on the MKM Stadium and effectively coached. Chelsea possess better depth and expertise in navigating knockout ties. The doubtless consequence is slim somewhat than comfy.
Chelsea to win, 2-1.
Head to Head File
Historic numbers lean closely in Chelsea’s favour. Hull have 4 wins on this fixture, Chelsea 34, with 10 attracts. Such statistics supply context somewhat than assure.
For Chelsea, the FA Cup stays each alternative and obligation. For Hull, it’s a platform. That stress is what offers this tie its edge.