The FA Cup returns this weekend and Mansfield Town captain Ryan Sweeney hopes his side can enjoy another strong run in the competition.

Stags had fans and neutrals alike on the edge of their seats last season with their performances in the FA Cup.

The tournament, known for its many upsets and shock results over the years, delivered just that as Mansfield Town reached the fifth round for the first time in more than 50 years.

It was a valiant display from Nigel Clough’s side and Ryan Sweeney says the team are eager to get going when they face Macclesfield this weekend.

Louis Reed of Mansfield Town celebrates scoring his team's second goal with teammates during the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Burnley and Mansfield Town at Turf Moor on February 14, 2026 in Burnley, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

placeholder image — Louis Reed of Mansfield Town celebrates scoring his team's second goal with teammates during the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Burnley and Mansfield Town at Turf Moor on February 14, 2026 in Burnley, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

“We’re excited. You saw our league form bounce off the back of it as well last time and the excitement it brings. It’s a fantastic competition, one I love playing in,” the skipper said.

Every step of Stags’ FA Cup journey last season was packed with action.

After beating Harrogate Town 3-2 in the first round, a 2-2 draw with Accrington Stanley required penalties to decide who would be moving on.

Holding their nerve in the shootout, Stags went on to thwart Sheffield United at Bramall Lane in a seven-goal thriller.

They then stunned Burnley at Turf Moor, coming from behind against the Premier League side to reach the fifth round for the first time since 1975.

The historic victory set up the unforgettable clash with Arsenal at the One Call Stadium, which Stags did not bow out of without a fight. The Gunners progressed but nowhere near as comfortably as many predicted, as the match ended 2-1.

Knowing what it’s like to be the triumphant underdogs, Mansfield Town must now be cautious of facing Macclesfield, the ultimate giant-slayers of the FA Cup, in the first round on Saturday.

The Silkmen, who compete in the National League North, eliminated last season’s reigning champions Crystal Palace with a 2-1 win in the third round.

“Macclesfield did unbelievably well last year, knocking out the holders, which was incredible,” Sweeney said. “So we’ve got to try and stop an upset as well moving into that.

“When that game comes around, we will be prepared for that and we want another good run in the FA Cup.”