The Fa Cup 2024/25: A Rollercoaster of Upsets and Triumphs
The 2024/25 FA Cup has already seen a thrilling array of twists and turns, with several big-name casualties and some unexpected heroes emerging from the lower leagues. As the competition progresses into the fifth round, the stage is set for an electrifying battle for the coveted trophy.
Early Rounds: Lower-League Surprises
The early rounds of the FA Cup are often a breeding ground for upsets, as lower-league sides aim to shock their more illustrious opponents. In the third round, which began on January 9, 2025, several lower-league teams made significant impacts. Plymouth Argyle, struggling in the Championship, stunned Premier League leaders Liverpool with a 1-0 victory, sending shockwaves through the football world. This was a historic moment, as no club from a lower league has won the FA Cup since West Ham in 1980. Another notable upset came from Coventry City, who forced a replay against Sheffield Wednesday and eventually won on penalties, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the competition.
Premier League Powerhouses and Dramatic Battles
The Premier League sides entered the fray in the third round, and while some favorites advanced smoothly, others faced tougher challenges. Manchester United, the defending champions, narrowly eliminated Arsenal in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw, extending their quest to become the first team since Arsenal in 2015 to retain the FA Cup. Other Premier League heavyweights like Manchester City, Leicester City, and Newcastle United also secured their passage to the next round, but the road ahead is far from smooth.
Fourth Round: More Surprises and High-Stakes Encounters
The fourth round, held from February 7 to February 11, continued the trend of surprises. Plymouth Argyle, after their stunning win over Liverpool, remained unfazed and secured a 1-0 victory over Championship side Bristol Rovers. This remarkable run has captured the imagination of fans and pundits alike. Meanwhile, Manchester United continued their impressive form by beating Leicester City 2-1, further solidifying their position as one of the favorites to lift the trophy. Other standout performances came from Millwall, who defeated Leeds United, and Burnley, who upset Southampton.
Fifth Round: The Road Narrows
The draw for the fifth round, announced on February 10, set the stage for some high-stakes encounters. Aston Villa faces Cardiff City in a clash of two teams from different leagues, while Crystal Palace takes on Millwall in a London derby. Manchester City, one of the most dominant teams in the competition, will face Plymouth Argyle, a match that promises to be a highlight of the round. Other notable matches include Aston Villa vs. Newcastle United and Manchester United vs. Fulham, with each game carrying the potential for more upsets and dramatic moments.
Quarterfinals and Beyond: The Final Stretch
The quarterfinals, set to take place on March 29, will be a crucial phase as the number of teams is reduced to eight. The draw will determine the fate of the remaining contenders, with each match potentially deciding the course of the tournament. The semifinals, scheduled for April 26, will see the last four teams battling it out at Wembley Stadium, setting the stage for the final on May 17, 2025. With the FA Cup’s rich history of upsets and dramatic finishes, the remaining matches are sure to provide plenty of excitement and nail-biting moments.
How to Watch the 2025 FA Cup
For fans around the world, watching the 2025 FA Cup is easier than ever, with various broadcasting options available. In the USA, ESPN and ESPN+ will cover the matches, while Canada can tune in via Sportsnet and Sportsnet Now. UK viewers can catch the action on BBC and ITV, with streaming options available on BBC iPlayer and ITVX. In Australia, Optus Sport will broadcast the matches, and Indian fans can follow the tournament through various platforms. With the global reach of the FA Cup, fans can stay connected to every kick and every goal, no matter where they are.
