Port Vale Shock Sunderland to Reach FA Cup Quarter-Finals for First Time in 72 Years
Sports Updated: 08 March 2026 22:28 EAT
Photo Credit:Sky Sports on telegram
Port Vale produced one of the biggest upsets of the 2025/26 Emirates FA Cup, defeating Premier League side Sunderland 1‑0 to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 1954.
The match-winning moment came in the 28th minute, when New Zealand international Ben Waine rose highest from a corner to head home, sending Vale Park into rapturous celebration.
Despite being at the bottom of League One, Port Vale displayed tactical discipline and defensive resilience to keep Sunderland at bay throughout the match.
Sunderland dominated possession and created multiple chances but were repeatedly thwarted by Vale’s organised backline and the heroics of goalkeeper Sam Hornby, who made several key saves.
Vale manager Jon Brady praised his players’ commitment, calling the victory a testament to their determination and spirit, particularly in a season where league form has been challenging.
Waine’s decisive strike capped off a remarkable FA Cup run, following his earlier winner against Bristol City in the fourth round, marking him as a key figure in the club’s historic campaign.
The result ends Sunderland’s FA Cup journey this season and adds pressure on their Premier League campaign, highlighting the unpredictable nature of cup football.
Fans and pundits hailed the victory as a classic example of the “magic of the FA Cup”, where underdogs defy expectations and produce unforgettable moments on a national stage.
Port Vale now advance to the quarter-final draw, awaiting their next opponent, and will celebrate a defining moment in the club’s history during its 150th anniversary season.
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FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD