West Ham United's 2-1 victory over Queens Park Rangers over the weekend has propelled them into the next round of the Emirates FA Cup. They have been drawn away to League One side Burton Albion in the fourth round of the 2025/26 Emirates FA Cup, following the draw on January 12, 2026. This marks the first competitive meeting between the two clubs.
West Ham enter as overwhelming favorites on paper – a top-flight side against lower-league opposition. However, the Irons are in a tough spot domestically, battling relegation under pressure, which could make this an awkward away trip if priorities lean toward league survival. A cup run might provide a much-needed boost in confidence. Burton Albion see this as a massive opportunity. Hosting a Premier League club at the Pirelli Stadium is a huge occasion for the Brewers and their fans. Former captain Aaron Webster called it "a great draw for the football club," highlighting the chance to face and potentially upset top-level opposition.
Burton is fighting their own relegation battle in League One, currently sitting in 21st place, just 3 points above the bottom three teams. Under manager Gary Bowyer, this is a dream draw and a landmark moment. Despite the Brewers being in the lower half of League One, they have shown cup pedigree by dispatching lower-tier opposition convincingly.
Time will tell if manager Nuno Espírito Santo will be at the helm coaching this game. With two must-win matches in league play against Tottenham and Sunderland, Nuno might be dismissed if he doesn't turn things around. One positive will be any further additions to the roster in time for this match. Earlier this month, Nuno was able to add two forwards, Valentin "Taty" Castellanos and Pablo Felipe, in the first week of the January Transfer period. While several players like Luis Guilherme, George Earthy, and Nicolas Fulkrug, have all left on loans and transfers. It leaves the bench and starting eleven a bit thin, but West Ham is on the hunt for center backs and wingers.
Another player West Ham may be without is Lucas Paqueta, who has expressed his desire to return to Brazil and sign a contract with Flamengo. The team has reached an agreement on a contract with the player and is trying to come to terms with owner David Sullivan on a 40 million euros contract. However, with the Brazilian transfer window not ending until March, he might help West Ham over the next 8 matches, allowing him to be active against Burton.