The FA Cup continues to deliver excitement, surprises, and memorable football moments as it captures the hearts of fans across the UK. As the competition progresses to the much-anticipated 3rd round, let’s take a look back at who went out in the early rounds, the upcoming fixtures, and the ultimate prize awaiting the winner at the FA Cup final in May.
From the magic of underdog triumphs to blockbuster clashes between football giants, the FA Cup remains a tournament unlike any other. With the draw for the 3rd round offering more thrilling ties, fans can once again immerse themselves in the drama of the world’s oldest football competition.
First and Second Round Recap: Who Went Out Early?
The opening rounds of the FA Cup are always a spectacle, with lower-league clubs dreaming of making history and advancing to face the big names of English football. This year, the early stages did not disappoint.
In the 1st round, several notable League One and League Two teams faced shock exits. AFC Wimbledon, a team with a proud history in this competition, suffered a narrow defeat to non-league Woking. Similarly, Gillingham fell to Kidderminster Harriers, a club that consistently punches above its weight in the FA Cup draw.
The 2nd round brought even more drama as Portsmouth, a former FA Cup winner, was knocked out by National League side Chesterfield in a penalty shootout thriller. Cambridge United also fell victim to an upset, losing 2-1 to Marine, a club five tiers below them. These results highlight the FA Cup’s unique ability to give every team a fighting chance, no matter their league position.
FA Cup 3rd Round: Fixtures and TV Schedule
The 3rd round is where the Premier League and Championship clubs enter the fray, and this year’s FA Cup fixtures promise an unforgettable weekend of football. With ties that pit footballing giants against local minnows and all-Premier League clashes, fans have plenty to look forward to.
Here’s the complete FA Cup 3rd round schedule and where to watch the FA Cup on TV:
Thursday, January 9
- Sheffield United vs. Cardiff City (7:00 p.m.) – BBC One Wales / iPlayer
- Everton vs. Peterborough United (7:45 p.m.) – BBC iPlayer
- Fulham vs. Watford (7:45 p.m.)
Friday, January 10
- Wycombe Wanderers vs. Portsmouth (7:45 p.m.)
- Aston Villa vs. West Ham United (8:00 p.m.) – ITV1 / ITVX
Saturday, January 11
- Birmingham City vs. Lincoln City (12:00 p.m.)
- Liverpool vs. Accrington Stanley (12:15 p.m.) – ITV1 / ITVX
- Manchester City vs. Salford City (5:45 p.m.) – BBC One / iPlayer
- Arsenal vs. Manchester United (3:00 p.m.) – BBC One / iPlayer
For a full list of FA Cup 3rd round fixtures and live TV games, check the FA Cup on TV schedule closer to the dates, as timings are subject to change.
When is the FA Cup Final?
One of the most common questions from fans is, “When is the FA Cup final?” This year, the grand finale is set for Saturday, May 17, 2025, and will take place at Wembley Stadium. The FA Cup final is not only the culmination of months of thrilling matches but also one of the most iconic dates in the football calendar.
The FA Cup final will be broadcast live on BBC and ITV, ensuring fans across the UK can witness the crowning of the 2025 champions.
How Much Do FA Cup Winners Take Home?
Aside from the glory of lifting the FA Cup trophy, the winning team takes home a significant prize. This year, the FA Cup prize fund offers the victors a substantial £3.9 million, while the runners-up receive £1.95 million. This financial reward is a lifeline for many clubs, particularly lower-league sides who dream of an FA Cup run transforming their fortunes.
Looking Ahead: A Tournament to Remember
As the FA Cup 3rd round approaches, the excitement continues to build. Whether you’re following your team’s journey or just enjoying the thrill of the competition, the FA Cup remains a cherished tradition in football.
From the surprises of the 1st and 2nd rounds to the blockbuster matches of the 3rd round, this year’s FA Cup fixtures promise plenty of action. With the final on May 17 already pencilled in as a must-watch event, fans across the UK are gearing up for months of unforgettable football.
Stay tuned for the latest FA Cup results, fixtures, and updates as we celebrate another magical season in this iconic competition.
What Makes the FA Cup Unique?
Unlike other competitions, the FA Cup isn’t seeded. This means that Premier League giants can face each other in early rounds, as Arsenal and Manchester United will in this year’s 3rd round. It also creates the possibility of mismatched ties, like Salford City taking on Manchester City—a true David vs. Goliath encounter.
The unpredictability doesn’t stop there. The lack of home advantage for bigger teams often sees smaller clubs upsetting the odds. Who can forget Lincoln City’s historic run to the quarterfinals in 2017 or Wigan Athletic’s stunning triumph over Manchester City in the 2013 final?
Looking Ahead to the 3rd Round
With the 3rd round now upon us, fans are braced for a mix of blockbuster clashes and potential giant killings. The question on everyone’s lips: Who will defy expectations this year?
One thing’s for sure—whether it’s the underdogs aiming to make history or the favourites battling for silverware, the FA Cup 2025 is already delivering moments to remember.
