The FA Cup has a habit of conjuring up romantic ties, and this season's fourth-round draw has served up a belter for Hull City. The Tigers, under the bright lights of the MKM Stadium, welcome Manchester United to East Yorkshire for a place in the fifth round. It's a fixture that evokes memories of 2014, when Steve Bruce's side famously dumped the Red Devils out of the competition – and current boss Liam Rosenior will be hoping his young, vibrant squad can channel that same spirit.

When and Where is the Match?

The tie is scheduled for a Saturday evening kick-off, with the exact date and time confirmed as Saturday, 28th January 2025, with a 5:30 PM GMT start. The stage is set at the MKM Stadium, a venue that will be rocking with a capacity crowd eager to roar their side to another giant-killing. For those fortunate enough to have a ticket, the atmosphere promises to be electric.

TV Channel and Live Stream Details

For the armchair support, the match will be broadcast live on BBC One, with coverage commencing at 5:00 PM GMT. The BBC's red-button and iPlayer service will also provide a live stream, ensuring fans across the UK can watch the action unfold. For those overseas, the match will be available on various international broadcasters, but for UK viewers, the BBC's comprehensive coverage is the go-to destination. Live streaming will also be available via the BBC iPlayer app on mobile and tablet devices, so you won't miss a minute of the action.

Team News and Tactical Preview

Hull City come into this tie on the back of a solid Championship campaign, with Rosenior's side playing an attractive brand of possession-based football. The Tigers' form at the MKM Stadium has been a cornerstone of their success, and they'll be confident of causing an upset. Key to their hopes will be the performances of in-form playmaker Jaden Philogene, whose flair and directness have lit up the Championship, and the ever-reliable Jacob Greaves marshalling the defence. Manchester United, under Erik ten Hag, have been inconsistent this season, and the Tigers will look to exploit any defensive vulnerabilities. Rosenior is likely to set his team up to press high and disrupt United's rhythm, with the pace of Philogene and Liam Delap on the counter-attack a potent weapon.

Historical Context: The 2014 Upset

This tie brings back fond memories for Hull City fans. In the 2013-14 FA Cup third round, the Tigers, then in the Premier League, faced Manchester United at the KC Stadium (now the MKM Stadium). A late equaliser from James Chester forced a replay at Old Trafford, where a stunning strike from Matty Fryatt secured a 1-0 win and a place in the fourth round. That victory was a defining moment in the club's modern history, and it will be referenced endlessly in the build-up. The current squad will be well aware of the legacy they have to uphold, and the fans will be dreaming of a similar upset.

How to Follow the Action

Beyond the traditional broadcast, fans can follow the match via live text commentary on the BBC Sport website and app, as well as on Hull City's official social media channels. The club's official website will provide minute-by-minute updates, and highlights will be available shortly after the full-time whistle. For those unable to watch live, the BBC's Match of the Day will feature extended highlights later that evening.

Forward-Looking Analysis

This is a free hit for Hull City. The pressure is firmly on Manchester United, but the Tigers have nothing to lose. A win would be a massive statement of intent for Rosenior's project, not just in terms of cup glory but also in raising the club's profile. It would also provide a significant financial boost. However, even a spirited performance in defeat would show that Hull City are a club on the rise under Acun Ilıcalı's ownership. The owner's ambition is clear, and a strong FA Cup run would be a welcome bonus alongside the primary goal of promotion to the Premier League. Expect a full-throttle performance from the Tigers, and if they can replicate the passion of 2014, we could be in for a classic cup tie.

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