The FA Cup third round brings an intriguing clash between Preston North End and Wigan Athletic, two sides separated by a division but united by the desire to progress in England’s oldest cup competition. Preston, currently competing in the Championship, will enjoy home advantage and arrive in strong form, while Wigan, from League One, hope to use this fixture as a welcome break from their league struggles. With both teams eager to make a statement, this encounter promises intensity and determination from the first whistle.

Preston North End’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Preston North End enter this FA Cup tie on the back of a solid run in the Championship, where they continue to fight for a playoff position. Their recent 0-2 victory away at Bristol City on January 4, 2026, extended their unbeaten streak to four home matches, three of which ended in draws. Over their last five games, Preston have recorded two wins, two draws, and one defeat, averaging 1.4 goals scored and 0.6 conceded per match. This consistency has been built on a disciplined defense and efficient finishing in front of goal.

In the FA Cup, Preston have yet to feature in earlier rounds, entering directly into the third round. Their focus will be on maintaining momentum and securing a fourth clean sheet in five outings. Historically, they have also enjoyed the upper hand in this fixture, winning three of the last five meetings against Wigan and drawing one. The last head-to-head encounter ended 2-1 in Preston’s favor on February 25, 2023, further underlining their dominance in recent years.

• Last 5 matches: 2 wins, 2 draws, 1 defeat.


• Average goals scored: 1.4 per match.


• Average goals conceded: 0.6 per match.


• Unbeaten in 4 home matches.


• Head-to-head record vs Wigan: 3 wins, 1 draw, 1 defeat.

Wigan Athletic’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Wigan Athletic approach this match hoping to rediscover confidence after a difficult spell in League One. Their most recent outing ended in a 1-0 defeat away to Cardiff City on January 4, 2026, leaving them struggling near the lower end of the table. Over their last five matches, Wigan have managed just one win, one draw, and three defeats, scoring an average of 0.8 goals while conceding 1.2. These numbers highlight their current challenges in both attack and defense.

In the FA Cup, Wigan’s season statistics show two draws and no defeats, with an average of 1.5 goals scored and 1.5 conceded per game. However, their away form remains a concern: they have drawn at half time in their last six FA Cup away matches and lost at half time in nine of their last fourteen away fixtures overall. Additionally, under 1.5 goals have been scored at half time in each of their last ten FA Cup matches, suggesting a cautious approach early in games.

• Last 5 matches: 1 win, 1 draw, 3 defeats.


• Average goals scored: 0.8 per match.


• Average goals conceded: 1.2 per match.


• Under 1.5 goals at half time in last 18 matches.


• Drawn at half time in last 6 FA Cup away games.

Preston North End vs Wigan Athletic Analysis

This FA Cup tie presents a classic battle between a Championship side in form and a League One team searching for stability. Preston North End’s defensive organization and home advantage make them the favorites, especially given their recent clean sheets and superior head-to-head record. Their ability to control possession and limit opponents’ chances has been key to their success, and they will look to impose that same rhythm here.

Wigan Athletic, on the other hand, will aim to frustrate their hosts and capitalize on counterattacks. Their recent matches have been low-scoring, with under 1.5 goals at half time in each of their last ten FA Cup fixtures, indicating a tendency to keep things tight early on. However, their lack of consistency and struggles away from home could prove costly against a well-drilled Preston side.

Given the statistical trends, this match could start cautiously before opening up in the second half. Preston’s superior form and confidence in front of their home supporters may ultimately tilt the balance in their favor.

Preston North End vs Wigan Athletic Prediction

Based on recent performances and historical data, Preston North End appear better positioned to advance to the next round. Their solid defense, combined with Wigan’s inconsistent away form, suggests a home victory is the most likely outcome. The head-to-head record also supports this view, with Preston winning three of the last five meetings and keeping clean sheets in two of them.

Preston North End vs Wigan Athletic prediction by BetMines:
Home Win (1) with 40% probability.