FA Cup 2024-25: Complete Guide to Draw, Fixtures, and Results

Everything You Need to Know About the 2024-25 FA Cup

The FA Cup, recognized as the oldest football competition globally, has kicked off its 144th edition for the 2024-25 season. This prestigious tournament allows teams from all levels of the English football hierarchy to compete for glory. Known for its thrilling "giant-killing ties," the FA Cup encapsulates the "magic of the cup," drawing fans and players alike into an exhilarating journey.

Where to Watch the FA Cup on TV & Online

Fans wishing to catch the excitement of the FA Cup games can tune in based on their location:

• United States: FA Cup matches are broadcast live on ESPN, with ESPN+ streaming select fixtures throughout the tournament.
• United Kingdom: The rights to broadcast FA Cup matches are held by both BBC and ITV, with the BBC showing 18 live matches and ITV featuring at least 20 games across the season.

FA Cup First Round Draw, Fixtures & Results

The first round draw for the 2024-25 FA Cup took place on October 14, 2024, stirring excitement among fans and teams. Noteworthy fixtures include:

• Sutton United vs. Birmingham City
• Harrogate Town vs. Wrexham (both televised)
• MK Dons vs. AFC Wimbledon (a historic rivalry)

Key Fixtures to Watch

These matches promise to deliver thrilling competition, especially in the case of MK Dons and AFC Wimbledon's poignant rivalry, ignited by the relocation of Wimbledon FC in the early 2000s.

FA Cup 2024-25 Round Dates

The 2024-25 FA Cup commenced on August 3, 2024, with the first of six qualifying rounds leading into the "first round proper" set for November 2, 2024. The journey through the tournament includes:

• Six qualifying rounds
• Seven "proper" rounds
• The final, scheduled for May 17, 2025

FA Cup Prize Money Explained

The financial incentives of the FA Cup can be significant, particularly for teams in lower divisions. Here’s a breakdown of the prize money:

• A team that enters in the first round and wins can earn a total of £4,030,000.
• The final alone is worth £2,000,000 for the winning team.

This prize pool underscores the importance of the FA Cup for clubs aiming for financial stability.

Who Won the FA Cup Last Year?

Defending champions Manchester United clinched the FA Cup title in the 2023-24 season. They triumphed over their local rivals, Manchester City, with a score of 2-1, in front of a lively crowd of 85,000 at Wembley Stadium. Key players who contributed to this victory included:

• Alejandro Garnacho
• Kobbie Mainoo
• Jeremy Doku scored for City, but it wasn’t enough to turn the tide.

On their route to the final, United overcame teams such as Wigan Athletic, Newport County, Nottingham Forest, Liverpool, and Coventry City.

Final Thoughts

The FA Cup remains a cherished tradition in football, capturing the hearts of fans globally. Whether you are rooting for a local club or tuning in to watch elite teams battle it out, every match brings the potential for excitement and surprises.