Brentford secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Macclesfield in a tense FA Cup Fourth Round clash, with a late own goal proving the decisive moment.
Premier League Brentford advanced to the next stage of the FA Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 win against resilient non-league side Macclesfield on Monday, February 16, 2026. A 70th-minute own goal settled the contest at the Leasing.com Stadium.
This FA Cup tie presented a classic 'David vs. Goliath' scenario, pitting top-tier Brentford against the spirited Macclesfield. The Silkmen, representing a lower league, harboured dreams of a famous cup upset on their home turf. Brentford aimed for a professional performance to secure their passage without incident.
From the outset, Brentford asserted their dominance in possession, controlling 75% of the ball. Macclesfield, however, set up to frustrate their Premier League opponents, forming a disciplined defensive block to deny space.
The visitors pressed high and accumulated 15 total shots during the half, but only managed one on target. Macclesfield's organised defence held firm, effectively restricting Brentford's efforts to create clear scoring opportunities.
Macclesfield, despite less possession, offered glimpses of counter-attacking threat. They registered eight shots themselves, with one requiring a save from Brentford’s goalkeeper Hákon Rafn Valdimarsson.
The physical nature of the encounter was evident early on. Brentford midfielder Vitaly Janelt received the game's first yellow card in the 21st minute for a mistimed challenge. The first half concluded goalless, a testament to Macclesfield’s tenacity.
At halftime, Macclesfield could be proud of their disciplined and determined effort, having successfully held a Premier League side at bay. Brentford, meanwhile, knew they needed to find more invention and penetration in the final third.
The second period began with Brentford intensifying their offensive efforts. They made an early tactical change in the 61st minute, with Keane Lewis-Potter replacing Reiss Nelson to inject fresh attacking impetus.
The crucial breakthrough finally arrived in the 70th minute under unfortunate circumstances for the home side. Macclesfield defender S. Heathcote inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, giving Brentford a 1-0 lead. This own goal broke Macclesfield's staunch resistance.
Macclesfield immediately responded with substitutions, introducing I. Buckley in the 68th minute and L. Fensome in the 72nd minute, as they desperately chased an equalizer. The physical battle continued to heat up in the closing stages.
The final quarter saw a flurry of yellow cards as both sides battled intensely. Macclesfield’s J. Edmondson (75') and P. Dawson (84') were booked, alongside Brentford’s Y. Yarmolyuk (77'). Brentford successfully held on to their slim advantage despite the pressure.
