In the FA Cup third round, the top Premier League clubs asserted their dominance with comfortable victories, while a few lower league teams caused surprises. Liverpool breezed past Accrington Stanley with a 4-0 win, courtesy of goals from Diogo Jota, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jayden Danns, and Federico Chiesa, marking manager Arne Slot's successful debut in the competition. Alexander-Arnold, amidst transfer speculations and recent criticism, silenced his critics with a sensational strike just before halftime.
Chelsea also secured an emphatic 5-0 victory over Morecambe, with Tosin Adarabioyo netting twice, and Joao Felix adding a late brace, as Christopher Nkunku also found the back of the net. Nottingham Forest continued their winning streak to seven games, defeating Luton Town 2-0, while Bournemouth overcame an early setback to defeat West Bromwich Albion 5-1 and extend their unbeaten run to nine matches.
Brighton impressed with a 4-0 win over Norwich City, and Wolverhampton Wanderers edged past Bristol City 2-1. Leicester City showcased their strength with a convincing 6-2 victory over Queens Park Rangers, with James Justin, Jamie Vardy, and Wout Faes among the goal-scorers. Plymouth Argyle stunned Brentford with a 1-0 win, marking their first victory over a top-flight club in over 40 years.
In other results, League One side Exeter City caused an upset by defeating Oxford United 3-1 to reach the fourth round for the first time in 44 years. The FA Cup third round had its fair share of drama and excitement, with a blend of expected triumphs and surprising results as the top teams showcased their quality amidst spirited lower league challenges.