League One bottom side Port Vale achieved a historic 1-0 victory over Premier League team Sunderland in the FA Cup fifth round, advancing to the quarter-finals for the first time since 1954. Ben Waine's first-half header secured the win at Vale Park. The result marks Port Vale's seventh cup triumph this season, contrasting their struggles in league play.
Port Vale, currently at the foot of League One and 11 points from safety, pulled off a stunning upset against 11th-placed Sunderland in the FA Cup fifth round on March 8, 2026, at Vale Park. The match, which saw 57 league positions separating the teams, ended 1-0 in favor of the hosts, with New Zealand international Ben Waine scoring the decisive header in the 28th minute from a corner.
Waine, who also netted the winner in extra time against Championship side Bristol City in the fourth round earlier that week, described the moment as "unbelievable." Speaking to TNT Sports, he said: "Look at this place. I’ve never seen it like this. We’re on a roll. We defended for our lives and every single player was amazing." As a boyhood Newcastle United fan, Waine added to BBC Sport: "It doesn't get better than that. That was something I've never even dreamt of."
Port Vale manager Jon Brady, who took charge in January, expressed shock post-match: "In a bit of shock really, to be honest. We worked out a game plan, worked very hard." He highlighted the team's recent form, unbeaten in four matches across competitions, and their seven cup wins compared to just six in 32 league games this season.
Sunderland, who fielded a strong side with only two changes from their midweek Premier League win over Leeds United, struggled to break down Vale's defense. Head coach Regis Le Bris told TNT Sports: "Full credit to our opponent first of all. They played with hunger, patience and intensity. And we are not at this level." Early chances, including Eliezer Mayenda's header against the post, went unconverted, and goalkeeper Melker Ellborg made a notable save to prevent an own goal by Luke O’Nien.
This was the sixth FA Cup meeting between the sides, with Port Vale now unbeaten in their last encounter after previous losses. The victory propels Vale into the quarter-finals draw on Monday, as the lowest-ranked team remaining. Pundit Glenn Murray noted on BBC: "It's been a terrific week for Port Vale - beating Championship Bristol City on Tuesday then a Premier League scalp today."
Port Vale's starting XI included Joe Gauci in goal, with substitutes like Tyrese Campbell unused. Sunderland featured Enzo Le Fee in midfield, but injuries to players such as Robin Roefs and Brian Brobbey limited options.
