Norwich vs Walsall Match Recap - Jan 11, 2026

Norwich's Dominance Shines Bright in FA Cup Rout Over Walsall

Norwich City delivered a commanding performance, dismantling Walsall 5-1 in the FA Cup Round of 64. This match not only showcased Norwich's attacking prowess but also highlighted the stark contrast in form between the two teams. Jovon Makama emerged as the standout player, netting a hat-trick and reinforcing his status as a key figure in Norwich's resurgence.

Norwich's recent form had been shaky, with only one win in their last five matches prior to this clash. The victory against Walsall marks a significant turnaround, especially after a disappointing loss to Stoke City just days earlier. The statistics from that match were telling; despite dominating possession with 52%, Norwich failed to convert their chances, registering an xG of just 0.48. This time, however, they flipped the script, showcasing a clinical edge that had been missing.

Walsall entered the match struggling with their own form, having lost four of their last five games. Their recent performances have been characterized by a lack of offensive threat, as evidenced by their xG of 0.65 against Oldham in their last outing. Against Norwich, they were unable to muster any significant response, failing to register a single shot on target throughout the match. This inability to threaten the opposition goal was a critical factor in their heavy defeat.

Norwich's dominance was reflected in the statistics: they led Walsall in shots on goal (6 to 0), total shots (7 to 0), and ball possession (78% to 22%). The disparity in passing accuracy was equally striking, with Norwich completing 89% of their passes compared to Walsall's 62%. This control allowed Norwich to dictate the tempo of the game and create numerous scoring opportunities.

Makama's performance was particularly noteworthy. After scoring crucial goals against QPR and Charlton in previous matches, he continued his fine form by netting three times against Walsall. His ability to find space and finish clinically was on full display, making him a nightmare for Walsall's defense. This hat-trick not only boosts his confidence but also solidifies his role as a key player for Norwich moving forward.

The tactical setup employed by Philippe Clement proved effective. The 4-2-3-1 formation allowed Norwich to exploit Walsall's weaknesses, particularly in midfield. With Jacob Wright and Pelle Mattsson controlling the center of the park, Norwich was able to transition quickly from defense to attack, leaving Walsall chasing shadows for much of the match.

Walsall's struggles were compounded by their inability to adapt defensively. The 3-5-2 formation that had served them well in previous matches failed to contain Norwich's fluid attacking play. Aden Flint and his defensive partners were often left exposed, unable to cope with the pace and movement of Norwich's forwards. The lack of cohesion in Walsall's backline was evident as they conceded five goals, a stark reminder of their defensive frailties.

Despite the heavy defeat, Walsall managed to find a consolation goal through Courtney Clarke in the 67th minute. However, this moment did little to alleviate the disappointment of their overall performance. The goal served as a reminder that even in defeat, there are moments of hope, but it was overshadowed by Norwich's relentless attacking display.

The implications of this match extend beyond just progression in the FA Cup. For Norwich, this victory could serve as a catalyst for improved performances in the Championship. With their confidence boosted, they will look to build on this momentum as they aim for a stronger finish in their league campaign. Conversely, Walsall must regroup quickly; their current form is concerning, and they need to find solutions if they are to avoid slipping further down the League Two table.

Reflecting on my pre-match prediction, I anticipated a narrow victory for Norwich based on their home advantage and tactical superiority. While I expected a competitive match, I underestimated just how dominant Norwich would be. This result serves as a wake-up call for both teams: Norwich has the potential to be a force if they can maintain this level of performance, while Walsall must address their shortcomings urgently.

In summary, Norwich City's emphatic win over Walsall not only highlights their attacking capabilities but also underscores the challenges facing Walsall as they navigate a difficult season. With players like Makama stepping up when it matters most, Norwich looks poised for a resurgence, while Walsall must find answers quickly if they hope to turn their fortunes around.