Hull City vs Chelsea: Match Preview, Latest Team News and How to Watch | OneFootball

Hull vs Chelsea: FA Cup Test Carries Narrative and Pressure

Chelsea head to Humberside tonight for an FA Cup fourth round tie that carries more subtext than the fixture list initially suggests. Hull await at the MKM Stadium, flying high in the Championship and eager to test themselves against Premier League opposition.

This is where romance meets scrutiny. Hull are fourth in the second tier and targeting the play offs, while Chelsea arrive needing reassurance after a frustrating 2-2 draw with Leeds in midweek. That result, surrendering a 2-0 lead at Stamford Bridge, has sharpened focus around the squad’s resilience ahead of this FA Cup assignment.

Kick Off Details and Broadcast Information

Hull vs Chelsea is scheduled for a 7.45pm GMT kick off on February 13, 2026 at the MKM Stadium. For viewers in the UK, the FA Cup tie will be shown live on BBC One and TNT Sports 1, with coverage starting at 7pm GMT. Supporters can also stream the match via the Discovery+ app and website, while BBC iPlayer will offer free access with a valid TV licence.

The FA Cup retains a certain clarity. It strips away league context and presents a simple question, can you handle the moment.

Team News Shapes FA Cup Approach

Chelsea’s preparation has been shaped by fitness updates. Captain Reece James returned to training after illness ruled him out against Wolves and Leeds, though he was described as “still under the weather”, leaving his involvement uncertain. Marc Cucurella is sidelined with a hamstring problem.

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There is, however, reinforcement. Mamadou Sarr, recalled from his loan at Strasbourg, is expected to feature in some capacity. Filip Jorgensen could resume goalkeeping duties after recovering from a knock, while Tosin Adarabioyo has also returned to training following his own hamstring issue. Jamie Gittens suffered a hamstring tear against West Ham, yet Romeo Lavia’s return to the grass offers encouragement.

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Hull have their own concerns. Charlie Hughes and Manchester United loanee Toby Collyer are doubts. Cody Drameh is back in training, while manager Sergej Jakirovic may look to recent additions such as Paddy McNair, Kieran Dowell, Lewis Koumas and Yu Hirakawa to bridge any gaps against their Premier League visitors.

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Hull Momentum Meets Chelsea Expectation

Hull progressed past Charlton 5-1 in the previous round and have been largely impressive in the Championship. Their six match unbeaten run was halted by Bristol City last time out, but confidence remains intact.

Chelsea’s FA Cup campaign began emphatically. They swept Charlton aside in a 5-1 victory that reflected attacking clarity and ruthless finishing. The challenge now is consistency.

Hull at home will not simply oblige. They have organisation, athleticism and a sense of occasion. Yet this is precisely the type of fixture Chelsea must negotiate if they are serious about restoring authority. After the Leeds collapse, the FA Cup provides an immediate chance to recalibrate.

Prediction discussions tend to orbit form and division. Hull are strong at the MKM Stadium and well coached. Chelsea possess greater depth and experience in navigating knockout ties. The likely outcome is narrow rather than comfortable.

Chelsea to win, 2-1.

Head to Head Record

Historical numbers lean heavily in Chelsea’s favour. Hull have four wins in this fixture, Chelsea 34, with 10 draws. Such statistics offer context rather than guarantee.

For Chelsea, the FA Cup remains both opportunity and obligation. For Hull, it is a platform. That tension is what gives this tie its edge.