The 2025‑26 Emirates FA Cup is building momentum as clubs across English football battle for a place in the later rounds of the world’s oldest domestic cup competition. This season marks the 145th edition of the FA Cup, with the final provisionally scheduled for 16 May 2026 at Wembley Stadium in London. The winners will also secure a place in the 2026‑27 UEFA Europa League.The tournament began with 747 teams entered—spanning from non-league sides to Premier League giants—and has progressed through qualifying and main rounds. Premier League clubs entered in the Third Round Proper in January, joining Championship and lower-league clubs.Key storylines so farGiant-killing shocks: Non-league Macclesfield delivered one of the biggest upsets of the season by defeating defending champions Crystal Palace 2–1 in the third round. This marked the first time a level-six side defeated a top-flight club in FA Cup history.Arsenal’s Cup push: Arsenal secured an emphatic 4–0 win over Wigan Athletic to reach the fifth round, showcasing attacking strength and squad depth. Head coach Mikel Arteta has expressed concern over a growing injury list that could affect both cup and league ambitions.Chelsea’s form: Chelsea cruised past Hull City 4–0, powered by a standout performance from Pedro Neto.Round of 16 fixtures: The fourth round saw all 16 matches played, featuring ties between teams from across league levels as clubs fight for quarter-final spots.What’s nextWith the FA Cup now entering the fifth round, fans can expect more high-intensity clashes as Premier League, Championship, and lower-division teams aim for Wembley glory. The competition’s unique knockout format still leaves room for surprises, continuing the magic that has defined the FA Cup for more than a century.A Decade of FA Cup GloryEngland’s FA Cup has delivered drama, heartbreak, and unforgettable moments over the last decade. From Arsenal’s triumphs to Manchester City’s record-breaking victories, the competition continues to showcase the best of English football.Founded in 1871, the FA Cup is England’s oldest domestic football competition. Its open knockout format allows clubs from the Premier League down to semi-professional and amateur levels to compete, giving rise to “giant-killing” stories in which smaller teams upset top-tier opponents. This format makes the tournament unpredictable and globally renowned.Over the past ten seasons, a mix of traditional giants and emerging challengers have lifted the iconic trophy at Wembley Stadium. While clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea have consistently appeared in finals, teams such as Leicester City and Crystal Palace have also made their mark, proving the FA Cup remains full of surprises.PUNCH Online takes a look at the FA Cup winners from 2015 to 2025:2015–16 Manchester United2016–17 Arsenal2017–18 Chelsea2018–19 Manchester City2019–20 Arsenal2020–21 Leicester City2021–22 Liverpool2022–23 Manchester City2023–24 Manchester United2024–25 Crystal PalaceThe last decade of the FA Cup highlights the competitive nature of English football, where established powerhouses meet determined underdogs.From Manchester City’s record-breaking victories to Leicester City’s fairy-tale triumph, the FA Cup continues to capture the imagination of football fans worldwide, maintaining its reputation as the tournament where anything is possible.
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