The FA Cup fourth round is set to commence this weekend, featuring a series of matches between Premier League and lower-league teams striving to progress in the competition. One significant change this season is the complete removal of replays, which have been scrapped from the first round onward to alleviate fixture congestion. Consequently, if any match in the fourth round ends in a draw after 90 minutes, it will be immediately resolved that same day through either extra time or penalties rather than a postponed replay.

In terms of match procedures, when teams find themselves level at the end of the standard 90 minutes, they will enter a 30-minute extra time allocation. This protocol was showcased during the third round, where matches such as Wrexham vs. Nottingham Forest exhibited the increased likelihood of games needing extra time, and in Wrexham's case, a penalty shootout followed their additional play. This shift in format insists on quicker resolutions to matches, potentially increasing the intensity and stakes as teams vie for advancement.

Finally, if the score remains tied after the extra-time period, the winner will be decided through a traditional penalty shootout. This format aims to create a more dynamic and fan-engaging experience while ensuring that fixtures are completed on time, allowing for smoother progression in the tournament schedule. The consolidation of these rules marks a significant evolution in how the competition is structured.