Lancashire Rivals Collide: Preston vs Wigan in FA Cup Showdown

This article will be about the EFL Championship side Preston North End hosting EFL League 1 side Wigan Athletic at Deepdale Stadium on Friday, 9th January. 

(Image Credits to @pnefc on X ) 

The FA Cup never disappoints when it comes to showcasing local rivalries. But the FA Cup 3rd round is no short of a challenge as Championship side Preston North End face League 1 Wigan Athletic. With both clubs eyeing up a place in the 4th round, the stage is set for an unforgettable local Derby filled with drama until the end. 

A Derby with a real Meaning 

With both clubs separated by just 20 miles from each other, Wigan shares a local Derby with Preston, and the Derby is built on League battles and Contrasting Footballing identities. Preston go into this as favourites as they currently sit in the EFL Championship table in 6th place. But Wigan's history in the FA Cup does not rule them out, even though they are a League 1 side, as their strong league form makes them a tough opponent for Preston to face. 

This isn't just a FA Cup 3rd round tie, this is a Derby filled with Pride and the chance to shift momentum in the 2nd half of this season as Preston fight for a play-off spot when the play-offs happen later this year. While League 1's Wigan tries to reach the top 10 this season, they are currently 14th in the table.

Preston North End: Looking to Build Momentum

Paul Heckingbottom's side, Preston, know that this fixture reenergises their league campaign as they manage to make it to the 4th round. Preston will be playing at their home ground, meaning that they have a home advantage where they can be difficult to break down in certain situations. 

Wigan Athletic: Cup Specialists With Nothing to Fear

Wigan's history in the FA Cup is well known, with the team winning the competition back in 2013 as they had beaten Manchester City at Wembley. Wigan are also known for their defensive structure, meaning that they can frustrate opponents like Preston when they are on the ball.

Article written by Elsie Nash © Elsie Nash 2026