FA Cup Final: All You Need to Know for 2025
If you love English football, the FA Cup Final is the highlight of the calendar. It’s the night when the underdogs can surprise the giants and the whole country stops watching. In this guide we break down the basics – date, venue, teams, where to watch and how to get tickets – so you’re ready for the action.
Match details and how to watch
The 2025 showdown is set for Saturday, May 24 at Wembley Stadium. The two finalists will be decided after the semi‑finals in early April, but the venue stays the same – a 90,000‑seat arena that’s home to every major England final.
Live‑stream options are simple. The BBC will carry the match on TV and on its iPlayer service, while ITV offers a free‑to‑air broadcast as well. If you prefer a subscription, both Sky Sports and BT Sport have the game on their football packages, and you can also catch a live feed on the official FA Cup app.
Kick‑off is scheduled for 5:00 pm BST, so you’ll have plenty of time to grab a snack before the drama unfolds. The stadium opens its gates at 2:30 pm, giving fans a chance to explore the fan zones, grab food, and soak up the atmosphere.
Tips for getting tickets and enjoying the day
Tickets for the final sell out fast, and the easiest way to secure a seat is through the official FA website. A small allocation is released each week in the weeks leading up to the game, so set a reminder and act quickly when the sale opens.
If you miss the official sale, look at reputable resale platforms that are approved by the FA. Avoid sketchy sites – they often sell invalid tickets that get turned away at the gate.
For fans on a budget, there are usually a limited number of standing tickets in the North and South Stands that cost less than the seated options. These are great if you just want to be part of the roar without breaking the bank.
Plan your travel early. Wembley is well‑connected by tube, train and bus, but on match day the crowds can be massive. Arriving early gives you a better chance to find a seat on the train and avoid the last‑minute rush.
Once inside, make the most of the fan experience. There are food stalls serving classic British pies, fish‑and‑chips, and vegan options. The official merchandise shop sells the latest jerseys, scarves and limited‑edition memorabilia – perfect for a souvenir.
Don’t forget to check the weather forecast. London in May can be unpredictable; a light raincoat or an umbrella won’t hurt, and staying comfortable means you can focus on the football.
After the final whistle, the winning team lifts the iconic silver trophy and celebrates on the pitch. Even if you’re not supporting the winners, the fireworks, chants and post‑match analysis make for an unforgettable night.
Whether you’re watching from the stands, your couch, or a local pub, the FA Cup Final offers drama, history and pure passion. Use this guide to plan your day, grab a ticket, and enjoy every minute of England’s biggest cup match.
Kieran Lockhart, May, 6 2025
Crystal Palace drew 1-1 with Nottingham Forest at Selhurst Park, with Eberechi Eze scoring from the spot. The result highlighted Palace's defensive grit as they look forward to the FA Cup final and gave Forest hope in their chase for a Champions League spot.
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