Mansfield Town defender Deji Oshilaja in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa hailed his side’s FA Cup victory over Premier League club Burnley after the League One outfit progressed to the fifth round for the first time since 1975.
The Stags produced a major upset at Turf Moor, coming from behind to beat the Clarets. Josh Laurent gave Burnley the lead midway through the first half, but second-half goals from Rhys Oates and Louis Reed sealed a memorable turnaround.
“It’s a win for the club, and I think it’s the first time we’ve beaten a Premier League club in the last seven years,” he exclusively told Footy-Africa.
“The club will hold this result in high regard in its history for a very long time. For me personally, it’s great to play against top opposition — one of the best. They’re a Premier League side, and to go away from home and come out with a result like that is brilliant.”
Mansfield had defeated Championship side Sheffield United in the previous round before overcoming Burnley, underlining an impressive cup run.
🙌 Starting the week with the goals that place us in tonight’s fifth round draw 🏆 pic.twitter.com/GEheF1nFik
— Mansfield Town FC (@mansfieldtownfc) February 16, 2026
Oshilaja believes the result proves that Mansfield can compete with any side, regardless of division.
“It shows that we can compete against any side. At the end of the day, it’s 11 against 11, and whoever performs best comes out on top. Yes, there are upsets, and it has happened for us before, but we believed we stood a chance. The manager and coaching staff prepared us well and told us to go there and give our best. That gave the boys a lot of confidence, and we delivered with our performance.” he explained.
Midfielder Louis Reed has been influential in the club’s FA Cup campaign, scoring three goals in the competition — two against his former club Sheffield United and one at Turf Moor.
“He’s a massive player for us. Everyone loves him, and the boys are happy to have him in the group. We’ve had him for a few years now, and he’s very important to the squad. It’s not just about the goals — it’s the way he plays the game. We’re grateful to have him on our side.”
A special moment in our club’s history 🔝🗑️ pic.twitter.com/n52z2S7TNE
— Mansfield Town FC (@mansfieldtownfc) February 15, 2026
Oshilaja added that the focus now shifts back to league action as Mansfield look to extend their strong run of form.
“Now the aim is to carry this into the league. We’re on a good run as well — unbeaten in the last ten games or so, with six or seven wins in a row. It’s going to be a great game against Blackpool, and we’re ready to go,” the Nigerian concluded.
