FA Cup Predictions

Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest

Prediction:
2-0

Match Time & Date:

11 January 2025

15:00

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Luton

Luton

High-flying Nottingham Forest will look to give fans yet another reason to celebrate when they take on Luton Town in the FA Cup round 3. The Reds are on a six-game winning run in the Premier League and it has to be noted that they have managed to keep a clean sheet in each of their last four league fixtures. The likes of Morato, James Ward-Prowse, Jota Silva, and Ryan Yates ... Read More...

This match will be played on 11 January 2025 at 15:00

Norwich

Norwich

Prediction:
1-2

Match Time & Date:

11 January 2025

15:00

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Brighton

Brighton

Saturday’s football game at Carrow Road pits together Norwich City and Brighton, the two teams who meet for the first time since April 2022. Back then the two sides played out a goalless draw in the Premier League, but Brighton are seen as hot favourites to win this FA Cup clash. The Seagulls proved their worth in a 1-1 draw with Arsenal at the weekend, meaning that they a... Read More...

This match will be played on 11 January 2025 at 15:00

Exeter

Exeter

Prediction:
1-1

Match Time & Date:

11 January 2025

15:00

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Oxford United

Oxford United

St James Park will host Saturday’s FA Cup game between Exeter City and Oxford United. The Grecians aim to recover from back-to-back losses to Wycombe and Bolton and they are likely to fight tooth and nail against Oxford. Australia midfielder Caleb Watts is a major doubt after limping off with injury in the last league match, with Millenic Alli being ready to sneak into the... Read More...

This match will be played on 11 January 2025 at 15:00

Chelsea

Chelsea

Prediction:
5-0

Match Time & Date:

11 January 2025

15:00

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Morecambe

Morecambe

Chelsea play host to Morecambe at their Stamford Bridge in what should be a lopsided affair. The Blues aim to put an end to their four-game winless run and they will not have a better chance than this to return to winning ways. Even though Enzo Maresca is expected to mix the squad, anything but a routine home win would be a big surprise. All Noni Madueke, Marc Guiu, Joao Fel... Read More...

This match will be played on 11 January 2025 at 15:00

Brentford

Brentford

Prediction:
3-1

Match Time & Date:

11 January 2025

15:00

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Plymouth

Plymouth

Brentford will be aiming to seal their spot in the FA Cup round 4 when they welcome Plymouth to their Brentford Community Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The Bees aim to build on a thrilling 5-0 win over Southampton and they are likely to stick to their attacking style of play. Germany midfielder Vitaly Janelt is widely expected to return to the starting eleven, while all Car... Read More...

This match will be played on 11 January 2025 at 15:00

Bournemouth

Bournemouth

Prediction:
3-1

Match Time & Date:

11 January 2025

15:00

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West Bromwich

West Bromwich

Expect an electrifying atmosphere at Vitality Stadium when Bournemouth face West Bromwich Albion in a highly-anticipated FA Cup game. The Cherries are enjoying yet another successful Premier League campaign, sitting just bellow the Conference League berth and, as a result, they are seen as hot favourites to win Saturday’s encounter. Bear in mind, though, that all Evanilson... Read More...

This match will be played on 11 January 2025 at 15:00

Leicester

Leicester

Prediction:
2-1

Match Time & Date:

11 January 2025

14:00

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QPR

QPR

Leicester City will try to recover from a 2-1 loss to Aston Villa when they take on Queens Park Rangers in the FA Cup round 3. The Foxes are now on a five-game losing run in the Premier League, but they will not have a better chance than this to get back on course. Patson Daka is widely expected to return to the starting XI, while Wout Faes should replace Jannik Vestergaard ... Read More...

This match will be played on 11 January 2025 at 14:00

Liverpool

Liverpool

Prediction:
4-0

Match Time & Date:

11 January 2025

12:15

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Accrington

Accrington

Anfield will host a David-vs-Goliath clash between Liverpool and Accrington Stanley. The Reds are seen as hot favourites to advance to the FA Cup round 4, but boss Arne Slot must warn his men against complacency. Striker Darwin Nunez misses out through suspension, while defender Joe Gomez has yet to overcome a hamstring problem. Diogo Jota is widely expected to lead the line... Read More...

This match will be played on 11 January 2025 at 12:15

Bristol City

Bristol City

Prediction:
2-1

Match Time & Date:

11 January 2025

12:00

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Wolves

Wolves

Bristol City will be aiming to build on a hard-fought 1-0 win over Derby County when they take on Wolverhampton in the FA Cup round 3. The Robins are on a three-game winning run at home and they are surely capable of making life difficult for the Premier League outfit at their Ashton Gate Stadium. Both George Tanner and Fally Mayulu are in line for a spot in the starting XI ... Read More...

This match will be played on 11 January 2025 at 12:00

Birmingham City

Birmingham City

Prediction:
2-0

Match Time & Date:

11 January 2025

12:00

VIEW PREDICTION

Lincoln

Lincoln

Birmingham City will look to book their spot in the FA Cup round 4 when they take on Lincoln at their St. Andrew’s Stadium on Saturday. The Blues are leading the chase for automatic Championship promotion, but they want to go all the way in the FA Cup as well. Even though there are no fresh injury worries in the home team, both Marc Leonard and Lyndon Dykes should be recal... Read More...

This match will be played on 11 January 2025 at 12:00

Aston Villa

Aston Villa

Prediction:
1-0

Match Time & Date:

10 January 2025

20:00

VIEW PREDICTION

West Ham

West Ham

Following a hard-fought 2-1 win over Leicester City, Aston Villa will look to give fans yet another reason to celebrate when they take on West Ham United in the FA Cup last 64. The Villans are a real force to be reckoned with at home, but they will have to showcase their worth on the field. Important midfielder John McGinn limped off with injury in the last Premier League ga... Read More...

This match will be played on 10 January 2025 at 20:00

Wycombe

Wycombe

Prediction:
2-1

Match Time & Date:

10 January 2025

19:45

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Portsmouth

Portsmouth

A spot in the FA Cup last 32 will be at stake when Wycombe and Portsmouth face each other at Adams Park on Friday evening. The Chairboys aim to recover from a 1-0 loss to Huddersfield Town and they are surely capable of matching the Pompey in front of home fans. Manager Matt Bloomfield is expected to make changes to the starting XI that faced the Terriers, with both Garath M... Read More...

This match will be played on 10 January 2025 at 19:45

Fulham

Fulham

Prediction:
2-1

Match Time & Date:

9 January 2025

19:45

VIEW PREDICTION

Watford

Watford

Fulham will look to kickstart their FA Cup campaign in style when they take on Watford at Craven Cottage. The Cottagers scored a late goal from the penalty spot to save one point against Ipswich Town, but they are seen as hot favourites to beat the Hornets in London. All Andreas Pereira, Emile Smith Rowe, Rodrigo Muniz, and Adama Traore are in line for a spot in the starting... Read More...

This match will be played on 9 January 2025 at 19:45

Everton

Everton

Prediction:
2-0

Match Time & Date:

9 January 2025

19:45

VIEW PREDICTION

Peterborough

Peterborough

Everton will look to put an end to their five-game winless run when they face Peterborough in the FA Cup round 3. The Toffees suffered a dip in form, with the team failing to find the net in back-to-back defeats to Nottingham Forest (0-2) and Bournemouth (0-1), but they are seen as hot favourites to beat the League One side at their Goodison Park. Even though Armando Broja h... Read More...

This match will be played on 9 January 2025 at 19:45

Sheffield United

Sheffield United

Prediction:
1-1

Match Time & Date:

9 January 2025

19:00

VIEW PREDICTION

Cardiff

Cardiff

A place in the FA Cup round 4 will be at stake when Sheffield United and Cardiff City lock horns at Bramall Lane on Thursday evening. The Blades are eager to impress on their FA Cup debut and they must be high on confidence following a 2-1 Championship win over Watford. Midfielder Gustavo Hamer is a major doubt after limping off with injury at the weekend, with Sam Callum be... Read More...

This match will be played on 9 January 2025 at 19:00

Man City

Man City

Prediction:
3-1

Match Time & Date:

25 May 2024

15:00

VIEW PREDICTION

Manchester United

Manchester United

Wembley Stadium will be the centre of attention when Manchester City and Manchester United lock horns in the FA Cup final. The Citizens set up a meeting with their local rivals by beating Chelsea in the semis and they must be high on confidence after managing to defend their Premier League trophy. Nathan Ake is pushing for a recall to the starting XI, while first-choice goal... Read More...

This match will be played on 25 May 2024 at 15:00

Author image
Bojan Jovanovic • Football expert
17 October 2025 • 07:21 UTC • 1 min read
FA Cup Predictions

Weekly FA Cup Betting Tips

Below you’ll find our weekly FA Cup tips across the most popular football betting markets, including Correct Score, Both Teams to Score (BTTS), Over/Under 2.5 Goals, Total Shots on Target, and Match Result. FA Cup predictions draw on form analysis, group-stage dynamics, and knockout trends from England’s most historic domestic cup competition, covering everything from early upsets to high-profile clashes between Premier League contenders and in-form lower-league challengers.

FA Cup Betting Tips

MatchBetting tips
PrestonPrestonAston VillaAston Villa30/03/2025, 13:30
  • Correct Score: 1-3
  • BTTS: Yes
  • Over 1.5 Goals: Yes
  • Total SoT: Over 9.5
  • Match Result: Away Win
BournemouthBournemouthMan CityMan City30/03/2025, 16:30
  • Correct Score: 2-2
  • BTTS: Yes
  • Over 1.5 Goals: Yes
  • Total SoT: Over 9.5
  • Match Result: Draw
Crystal PalaceCrystal PalaceAston VillaAston Villa26/04/2025, 17:15
  • Correct Score: 1-1
  • BTTS: Yes
  • Over 1.5 Goals: Yes
  • Total SoT: Over 4.5
  • Match Result: Draw
Nottingham ForestNottingham ForestMan CityMan City27/04/2025, 16:30
  • Correct Score: 0-2
  • BTTS: No
  • Over 1.5 Goals: Yes
  • Total SoT: Over 4.5
  • Match Result: Away Win
Crystal PalaceCrystal PalaceMan CityMan City17/05/2025, 16:30
  • Correct Score: 0-2
  • BTTS: No
  • Over 1.5 Goals: Yes
  • Total SoT: Over 4.5
  • Match Result: Away Win

FA Cup Outrights Tips for 2025/2026 Season

Outright betting in the FA Cup focuses on predicting outcomes across the entire tournament rather than single matches. The main FA Cup betting markets include To Win Outright, To Reach The Final, To Reach The Semi-Finals, and Top Goalscorer. These long-term bets are placed before and during the competition, with prices changing as results come in and the field narrows.

FA Cup Outrights Tips for 2025/2026 Season

Our expert football forecasts for the 2025/26 FA Cup season are set out below.

Who will win the FA Cup this season?

Liverpool are the bookmakers’ favourites to win the FA Cup in 2025–26, priced at 9/2 (18.2%) by most major bookmakers. They boast strong attacking depth and recent high-stakes experience in cup competitions, which makes them a credible front-runner. Yet in our view Manchester City at 11/2 (15.4%) are the most likely FA Cup winners. Their consistency in knockout rounds, squad quality, and tactical flexibility give them a slight edge in this edition of the FA Cup.

More info about the 2 leading contenders to win the FA Cup is given below.

  • Liverpool (9/2, 18.2%). Liverpool enter as favourites to win the FA Cup this season thanks to elite attacking output and significant upgrades in key areas. Mohamed Salah continues to deliver at a world-class level, while the arrivals of Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong add proven ball progression and penetration. Wirtz increases the team’s ability to generate high-value chances through zone-14 passing and final-third combinations, while Frimpong’s overlapping runs and chance creation from wide areas increase output in expected assists (xA). Combined with Liverpool’s pressing intensity and a Premier League title secured in 2024–25, the squad is well-positioned to contend for the FA Cup win.
  • Manchester City (11/2, 15.4%). Manchester City are our favourite to win the FA Cup this year. They reached the final in 2025 and have consistently advanced to the latter stages during Guardiola’s tenure. The team’s tactical structure maximises possession dominance, and with Phil Foden emerging as a leading chance-creator and finisher, City still generate high expected goals (xG) values in cup matches. Even with Kevin De Bruyne no longer central (De Bruyne’s 10-year contract finished at the end of the 2024–25 season), City’s squad depth and established automatisms give them one of the most stable attacking and defensive profiles in the competition, making them our favourite to win the FA Cup in 2025–26.

Who is most likely to reach the FA Cup semi-finals?

Based on squad strength, summer signings, and managerial setups, the most likely contenders to reach the FA Cup semi-finals in 2025/26 are Liverpool and Manchester City. Liverpool combine Arne Slot’s dynamic approach with a refreshed attack featuring Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Alexander Isak, while Manchester City remain a force under Vincent Kompany. Other strong candidates to reach the FA Cup semi-finals include Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea. Spurs look improved under new boss Thomas Frank, while Chelsea’s strength in depth and the arrivals of players such as Liam Delap and Alejandro Garnacho give them the balance to compete deep into the competition.

More information about the 4 clubs most likely to reach the FA Cup semi-finals this season follows below.

  • Manchester City. Manchester City are the leading candidates for an FA Cup semi-final place because of their consistent cup pedigree and the addition of Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, and Gianluigi Donnarumma, all signed between June and September 2025. Manager Pep Guardiola has shown over the years that his sides adapt seamlessly to knockout football, rotating without a major drop in performance. Donnarumma’s arrival upgrades their goalkeeping for high-pressure ties, Reijnders strengthens ball progression in midfield, and Cherki offers a creative spark against compact defences. City’s mix of depth and tactical flexibility means they are equipped for a deep run, making them one of the clubs most likely to make it to the FA Cup semi-finals.
  • Liverpool. Liverpool are another strong candidate for an FA Cup semi-final spot thanks to a successful rebuild under Arne Slot and a wave of new attacking signings. Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Alexander Isak provide both variety and finishing power, complementing an already proven core led by Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk. Slot’s tactical style carried Liverpool to the Premier League title last season, showing he is able to manage the balance between league commitments and knockout intensity. With a wealth of attacking options and a squad refreshed across multiple lines, Liverpool look prepared to go far, making them one of the clubs most likely to make it to the FA Cup semi-finals.
  • Tottenham Hotspur. Tottenham Hotspur stand out as another likely FA Cup semi-finalist under new manager Thomas Frank, who arrived from Brentford in the summer of 2025. During his tenure at Brentford, Frank built a reputation for defensive organisation, effective pressing, and strong set-piece routines, qualities that translate well to knockout competitions. Spurs now combine that tactical discipline with attacking options capable of deciding tight matches. The sharper defensive unit gives Tottenham a stronger platform than in recent years, making them one of the clubs most likely to make it to the FA Cup semi-finals.
  • Chelsea. Chelsea complete the list of strong semi-final candidates in the FA Cup on the back of squad depth and a string of exciting new arrivals. Liam Delap, João Pedro, Estêvão, and Alejandro Garnacho add youth, pace, and unpredictability across the front line, ensuring attacking freshness throughout the tournament. Chelsea’s investment over recent windows has built a roster capable of rotating while still fielding dangerous line-ups, which is crucial given the FA Cup’s compact schedule from the Fourth Round onwards. This strength in depth positions Chelsea well to survive tricky draws, making them one of the clubs most likely to make it to the FA Cup semi-finals.

FA Cup Betting Stats and Data

Officially called The Football Association Challenge Cup, the FA Cup is the oldest national football competition in the world, first played in 1871–72. To support our FA Cup tips and betting advice, FootballPredictions.com draws on historical records, including outcomes such as home wins, away wins, replays, goal averages, and BTTS percentages. We use this data to provide the statistical foundation for our weekly previews across the most popular FA Cup betting markets.

FA Cup Stats (2025/2026)

Team Type Average Goals Scored
Home Teams 1.79
Away Teams 1.47
Total (Combined) 3.26
27.6 min/Goal (2433 Goals in 747 matches)
47% Clean Sheets (354 times out of 747 matches)
56% Both Teams Scored (422 times out of 747 matches)
Outcome (Full-Time Result) % of Matches
Home Win 47%
Draw 19%
Away Win 34%
Goals % of Matches Over
Over 0.5 96%
Over 1.5 83%
Over 2.5 63%
Over 3.5 41%
Over 4.5 24%
Goals % of Matches Under
Under 0.5 4%
Under 1.5 17%
Under 2.5 37%
Under 3.5 59%
Under 4.5 76%
FA Cup Match Stats (2025/2026)
Shots Per Match 22.22
Shots / Match (Home) 12.68
Shots / Match (Away) 9.54
Fouls Per Match 20.81
Fouls / Match (Home) 10.38
Fouls / Match (Away) 10.44
Offsides Per Match 4.29
Players Participated 266

FA Cup Fixtures

Date Match
01/08/2025, 18:45 Roman Glass St George 7 - 0 Nailsea & Tickenham
01/08/2025, 18:45 0 - 2 Sutton Coldfield Town
01/08/2025, 18:45 Enfield 1893 0 - 0 Wormley Rovers
01/08/2025, 18:45 4 - 0
01/08/2025, 18:45 3 - 2
01/08/2025, 19:00 Wokingham Town 3 - 2
01/08/2025, 19:00 2 - 1
02/08/2025, 11:00 1 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 Leatherhead 2 - 2 Phoenix Sports
02/08/2025, 14:00 Willand Rovers 0 - 2 Barnstaple Town
02/08/2025, 14:00 Walthamstow 1 - 1 Brantham Athletic
02/08/2025, 14:00 Tadley Calleva 4 - 1 Millbrook FC
02/08/2025, 14:00 Seaford Town 1 - 0 Sutton Athletic
02/08/2025, 14:00 Ardley United 1 - 0 Aylesbury United
02/08/2025, 14:00 Newquay 2 - 2 Shepton Mallet
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 4
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 Pilkington XXX 2 - 2 Longridge Town
02/08/2025, 14:00 St Neots Town 7 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 4 Redbridge
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 Ware 5 - 0 Welwyn
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1 Cambridge City
02/08/2025, 14:00 Burnham 3 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 Peacehaven & Telscombe 2 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 4
02/08/2025, 14:00 Bashley 1 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 5
02/08/2025, 14:00 Shildon AFC 3 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 Cinderford Town 0 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 5 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 Harpenden Town 1 - 1 Concord Rangers
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 Aylesbury 1 - 1 Abingdon United
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 1 Nuneaton Town
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 4
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2 Ramsbottom United
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2 Grays Athletic
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 4 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 7
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 5
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 Horbury Town 0 - 0 Wombwell Town
02/08/2025, 14:00 Loughborough University FC 1 - 1 Barton Town Old Boys
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 4 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 4 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 Sheffield 1 - 1 Albion Sports
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 Street 2 - 2 Brixham
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 4
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 5
02/08/2025, 14:00 Cirencester Town 0 - 0 Reading City
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 3 VCD Athletic
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 4
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 4
02/08/2025, 14:00 5 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 6 Didcot Town
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 4
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 4
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 4
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 West Allotment Celtic 1 - 1 Northallerton Town
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 Fakenham Town 1 - 1 Wroxham
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 4
02/08/2025, 14:00 Racing Club Warwick 2 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 5 Arlesey Town
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 Stafford Rangers 0 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 Guisborough Town 2 - 2 Consett
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 4 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 7 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 5 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 4 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 Bury 6 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 4
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 5 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 4
02/08/2025, 14:00 Cornard United FC 2 - 2 Woodbridge Town FC
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 Bishop Auckland 2 - 2 Whickham FC
02/08/2025, 14:00 5 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 5 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 4 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 4 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 Bedworth United 2 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 4 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 Punjab United 2 - 2 Crowborough Athletic
02/08/2025, 14:00 Histon 2 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 5 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 4 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 Horley Town 0 - 0 Corinthian
02/08/2025, 14:00 Witham Town 1 - 1 Frenford
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 4
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 4
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 Trafford 2 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 5 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 Chadderton 2 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 2 Newcastle Blue Star
02/08/2025, 14:00 Ipswich Wanderers 2 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 1 Merthyr Town
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 Leighton Town 1 - 1 Benfleet
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 Glossop North End 1 - 1 St Helens
02/08/2025, 14:00 Witton Albion 4 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 Eastwood Community 2 - 2 Gresley
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 6
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 Mildenhall Town 1 - 1 Downham Town
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 Saffron Walden Town 0 - 0 Harlow Town
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 4 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 Abbey Hey 1 - 1 AFC Liverpool
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 Cowes Sports 2 - 2 Laverstock & Ford
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 Mangotsfield United 1 - 1 Bristol Manor Farm
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2
02/08/2025, 14:00 Thornbury Town 2 - 2 Virginia Water
02/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 2 Kings Langley
02/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 6
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 3
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:00 4 - 1
02/08/2025, 14:00 Maldon & Tiptree 5 - 0
02/08/2025, 14:30 Jersey Bulls 5 - 0
03/08/2025, 12:00 0 - 4 Harrow Borough
03/08/2025, 14:00 Hallam 3 - 1 Lower Breck
03/08/2025, 14:00 Hilltop 2 - 2 Deal Town
03/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 1
03/08/2025, 15:00 0 - 2
04/08/2025, 18:45 2 - 3
04/08/2025, 18:45 Phoenix Sports 0 - 3 Leatherhead
04/08/2025, 18:45 Merthyr Town 1 - 0
05/08/2025, 18:30 Shepton Mallet 0 - 2 Newquay
05/08/2025, 18:30 Laverstock & Ford 2 - 1 Cowes Sports
05/08/2025, 18:30 Brixham 2 - 0 Street
05/08/2025, 18:30 3 - 2 Peacehaven & Telscombe
05/08/2025, 18:45 Northallerton Town 0 - 0 West Allotment Celtic
05/08/2025, 18:45 Downham Town 1 - 1 Mildenhall Town
05/08/2025, 18:45 Consett 0 - 2 Guisborough Town
05/08/2025, 18:45 St Helens 3 - 1 Glossop North End
05/08/2025, 18:45 Frenford 0 - 3 Witham Town
05/08/2025, 18:45 Virginia Water 3 - 2 Thornbury Town
05/08/2025, 18:45 Benfleet 0 - 1 Leighton Town
05/08/2025, 18:45 Wroxham 2 - 0 Fakenham Town
05/08/2025, 18:45 Wormley Rovers 2 - 3 Enfield 1893
05/08/2025, 18:45 Wombwell Town 4 - 0 Horbury Town
05/08/2025, 18:45 Abingdon United 2 - 1 Aylesbury
05/08/2025, 18:45 Bedfont Sports - Guernsey
05/08/2025, 18:45 Bristol Manor Farm 0 - 1 Mangotsfield United
05/08/2025, 18:45 Albion Sports 2 - 3 Sheffield
05/08/2025, 18:45 Longridge Town 8 - 1 Pilkington XXX
05/08/2025, 18:45 Woodbridge Town FC 4 - 2 Cornard United FC
05/08/2025, 18:45 Corinthian 3 - 3 Horley Town
05/08/2025, 18:45 Crowborough Athletic 3 - 2 Punjab United
05/08/2025, 18:45 Gresley 0 - 0 Eastwood Community
05/08/2025, 18:45 Harlow Town 2 - 1 Saffron Walden Town
05/08/2025, 18:45 Barton Town Old Boys 2 - 1 Loughborough University FC
05/08/2025, 18:45 Concord Rangers 0 - 0 Harpenden Town
05/08/2025, 18:45 Deal Town 4 - 1 Hilltop
05/08/2025, 18:45 3 - 1
05/08/2025, 18:45 Kings Langley 2 - 4
05/08/2025, 18:45 Reading City 2 - 0 Cirencester Town
05/08/2025, 18:45 5 - 0
05/08/2025, 18:45 1 - 0
05/08/2025, 18:45 2 - 0
05/08/2025, 18:45 5 - 1
05/08/2025, 18:45 1 - 4
05/08/2025, 18:45 Brantham Athletic 4 - 1 Walthamstow
05/08/2025, 18:45 3 - 2
05/08/2025, 18:45 0 - 1 Histon
05/08/2025, 19:00 Welwyn - Ware
06/08/2025, 18:30 2 - 0
06/08/2025, 18:45 AFC Liverpool 0 - 0 Abbey Hey
06/08/2025, 18:45 Whickham FC 0 - 5 Bishop Auckland
06/08/2025, 18:45 3 - 0
06/08/2025, 18:45 3 - 0
06/08/2025, 18:45 1 - 0
06/08/2025, 18:45 2 - 4
06/08/2025, 18:45 2 - 1
12/08/2025, 18:45 2 - 1
15/08/2025, 18:45 0 - 0
15/08/2025, 18:45 0 - 3 Tadley Calleva
15/08/2025, 18:45 2 - 0
15/08/2025, 18:45 2 - 2
15/08/2025, 18:45 0 - 2 Racing Club Warwick
16/08/2025, 11:00 Jersey Bulls 2 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 Reading City 1 - 2 Didcot Town
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 2 Arlesey Town
16/08/2025, 14:00 Merstham 2 - 4
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 2 Corby Town
16/08/2025, 14:00 Nantwich Town 1 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 6
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 9
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 0 Roman Glass St George
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 3
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 Frome Town 2 - 1 Newquay
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 3
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 Mangotsfield United 3 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 Sporting Khalsa 5 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 3 Long Eaton United
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 Bedworth United 0 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 Wombwell Town 2 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 0 Bowers & Pitsea
16/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 0 Virginia Water
16/08/2025, 14:00 St Helens 0 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 Seaford Town 0 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2 Dunston UTS
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 1 Hendon
16/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 0 Redbridge
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 0 Ipswich Wanderers
16/08/2025, 14:00 VCD Athletic 0 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 5
16/08/2025, 14:00 Brightlingsea Regent 2 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 Bishop Auckland 2 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 Hayes & Yeading United 2 - 1 Merthyr Town
16/08/2025, 14:00 Sutton Coldfield Town 3 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 4 - 3
16/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 9 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 Stalybridge Celtic 1 - 1 Bury
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 3
16/08/2025, 14:00 Witton Albion 4 - 1 AFC Liverpool
16/08/2025, 14:00 Longridge Town 5 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 3
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 4
16/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 Trafford 3 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1 Chasetown
16/08/2025, 14:00 Corinthian 2 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 1 Bashley
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 3 Newcastle Blue Star
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0 Harrow Borough
16/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 3
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 0 Cambridge City
16/08/2025, 14:00 Harlow Town 1 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 3
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1 Chadderton
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 4
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 1 Ramsbottom United
16/08/2025, 14:00 Witham Town 4 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 2 Laverstock & Ford
16/08/2025, 14:00 Histon 5 - 2 Woodbridge Town FC
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 2 Shildon AFC
16/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 4 Eastwood Community
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 5
16/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 2 St Neots Town
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 Leatherhead 0 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 Barnstaple Town 1 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 2 Waltham Abbey
16/08/2025, 14:00 Barton Town Old Boys 1 - 6
16/08/2025, 14:00 Hitchin Town 1 - 1 Grays Athletic
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 0 Brantham Athletic
16/08/2025, 14:00 4 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 Leighton Town 3 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 0 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 Guisborough Town 0 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 Northallerton Town 2 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 4 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 4
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 4 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 Aylesbury 2 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 2 Margate
16/08/2025, 14:00 Ardley United 1 - 2 Burnham
16/08/2025, 14:00 Sheffield 0 - 3
16/08/2025, 14:00 5 - 3 Harpenden Town
16/08/2025, 14:00 Mildenhall Town 1 - 0 Wroxham
16/08/2025, 14:00 Crowborough Athletic 0 - 1 Deal Town
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 Bedfont Sports 2 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 5
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 2 - 1
16/08/2025, 14:00 Brixham 4 - 3
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 2 Maldon & Tiptree
16/08/2025, 14:00 1 - 0
16/08/2025, 14:00 Ware 2 - 2
17/08/2025, 13:00 Hallam 3 - 0
17/08/2025, 14:00 Wokingham Town 2 - 0
17/08/2025, 14:00 3 - 0
17/08/2025, 14:00 Enfield 1893 4 - 2 Biggleswade Town
18/08/2025, 18:45 2 - 0
19/08/2025, 18:30 Shildon AFC 5 - 2
19/08/2025, 18:45 Redbridge 1 - 0
19/08/2025, 18:45 Margate 1 - 0
19/08/2025, 18:45 1 - 2
19/08/2025, 18:45 4 - 1
19/08/2025, 18:45 1 - 1
19/08/2025, 18:45 Bury 0 - 2 Stalybridge Celtic
19/08/2025, 18:45 Ramsbottom United 2 - 2
19/08/2025, 18:45 Waltham Abbey 3 - 1
19/08/2025, 18:45 1 - 2
19/08/2025, 18:45 0 - 2
19/08/2025, 18:45 3 - 1 Northallerton Town
19/08/2025, 18:45 Bowers & Pitsea 2 - 0
19/08/2025, 19:00 1 - 2
20/08/2025, 18:30 1 - 0 Guisborough Town
20/08/2025, 18:45 1 - 4
20/08/2025, 18:45 Grays Athletic 0 - 1 Hitchin Town
20/08/2025, 18:45 0 - 1
20/08/2025, 18:45 0 - 2
20/08/2025, 18:45 1 - 1 Ware
20/08/2025, 18:45 3 - 2 Harlow Town
13/09/2025, 14:00 AFC Totton 1 - 0 Torquay United
13/09/2025, 14:00 3 - 0 Leamington
13/09/2025, 14:00 Welling United 1 - 1 Slough Town
16/09/2025, 18:45 Banbury United 1 - 1 Chasetown
16/09/2025, 18:45 Evesham United 1 - 0 Racing Club Warwick

What are FA Cup Predictions?

FA Cup predictions are expert forecasts of outcomes in England’s most historic knockout competition. Unlike league forecasts, FA Cup predictions focus on single-elimination ties where one match decides who advances. Predictions highlight which clubs are best placed to progress through each round, who is likely to challenge for the trophy, and which betting markets offer the strongest statistical backing. These markets include Match Result, Both Teams to Score (BTTS), and Over/Under goals. Because the FA Cup features teams from all tiers of English football, predictions weigh the differences in quality, depth, and resources between Premier League giants and semi-professional sides, while considering how factors like home advantage and fixture scheduling influence results.

What makes the FA Cup so distinctive as a competition is the mix of high-level teams and underdogs sharing the same bracket. Lower-division clubs sometimes defeat top-flight opponents, often because stronger teams rotate their line-ups to rest key players for league or European matches. Historical patterns show that even elite clubs occasionally fall in the early rounds when facing motivated opposition in challenging away environments, such as small stadiums with intense local support. At FootballPredictions.com, our experienced football betting analysts assess form, head-to-head records, and tactical setups to produce FA Cup predictions that reflect both statistical evidence and the realities of knockout football.

How are FA Cup Predictions determined?

We formulate the most accurate FA Cup predictions possible through a five-step process that blends competition-specific context, data modelling, team news, tactical/venue factors, and market evaluation.

The five steps behind our FA Cup forecasts are listed below.

  • Setting the tie context and cup rules
  • Assessing form and underlying data
  • Reviewing squad availability and rotation
  • Factoring in venue, travel, and conditions
  • Comparing projections with bookmaker odds
  1. Setting the tie context and cup rules. Our FA Cup predictions start by analysing match context. The competition is a straight knockout, beginning with early qualifying rounds that involve hundreds of non-league clubs before professional sides enter later. There is no seeding system, so the draw is entirely random and pairs any clubs together once they join, whether from the Premier League or lower divisions. This format matters because the stage of the competition shapes how seriously teams approach the match and what progression means in terms of prize money, scheduling, and prestige. With that structure in place, the match context for each tie is assessed properly and FA Cup predictions reflect the unique demands and opportunities of every round.
  2. Assessing form and underlying data. The next steps of producing FA Cup predictions involves incorporating recent performance trends and stable metrics such as chance creation/concession, xG profiles, and finishing/shot suppression streaks. Knockout football magnifies small edges, so we weight home/away performance and scoring baselines (the Cup typically produces high goals-per-game in early rounds, with home win rates around the high-40% range in recent seasons) alongside head-to-head context. Separating short-term streaks from sustained strengths helps FA Cup predictions reflect repeatable performance rather than one-off spikes.
  3. Reviewing squad availability and rotation. The next step in shaping accurate FA Cup predictions is folding in team news because FA Cup predictions hinge on who actually plays. Managers often rotate during congested periods, protecting key starters for league or European objectives, while lower league sides usually field their strongest starting lineup. Suspensions, injuries, and January arrivals or departures directly shift a tie’s balance. Quantifying likely rotation and bench quality lets FA Cup predictions connect squad depth to realistic match outcomes.
  4. Factoring in venue, travel, and conditions. The next step in grounding our FA Cup predictions is analysing home advantage (crowd intensity, pitch size/quality), travel burdens on favourites, and winter conditions that tend to compress game state and raise variance. Smaller, hostile venues frequently narrow the talent gap and increase the chance of an upset, especially when elite teams face motivated hosts from lower tiers. This context is baked into FA Cup predictions before finalising probabilities.
  5. Comparing projections with bookmaker odds. Finally, we convert our probabilities into prices and benchmark them against the market to turn FA Cup predictions into actionable tips. By translating odds to implied probabilities, we flag mismatches (overreactions to recent form, underestimation of rotation risk, or mispriced home advantage) in core markets like Match Result, BTTS, and Clean Sheet. Where our model meaningfully disagrees with the line (and the reasoning holds under team news) we publish FA Cup predictions that prioritise value and long-term edge.

When are FA Cup Predictions released?

Our FA Cup predictions are published at the start of each week, typically on Monday at 1:00 PM (UK) London time. This schedule aligns with the fact that most fixtures take place on weekends, giving readers several days to review analysis before the action begins.

FA Cup replays and rearranged ties are usually set for midweek, and predictions for those matches are released once the draw and dates are confirmed. This approach ensures that every forecast is based on the most accurate information available and that FA Cup fans and bettors receive reliable football predictions in good time.

What are the most appealing Betting Markets to bet on for the FA Cup?

The three most appealing betting markets in the FA Cup are Home Wins, Both Teams to Score (BTTS), and Over 2.5 Goals. These markets stand out because they combine consistency with value. Home advantage continues to matter across early and late rounds, BTTS thrives on mismatches and rotation, and Over 2.5 Goals benefits from the FA Cup’s attacking style, with most seasons averaging over three goals per game.

What are the most appealing Betting Markets to bet on for the FA Cup

More information on the 3 most appealing betting markets for the FA Cup is given below.

  • Home Wins. Home teams have secured between 46% and 48% of results over the last five FA Cup seasons. The 2021/22 campaign hit its peak at 48%, with sides like Kidderminster Harriers using home support to produce shock runs into the later rounds. Similarly, in 2023/24’s FA Cup, Maidstone United and Cray Valley Paper Mills both recorded dominant home records, underlining how local support levels the playing field even against stronger opposition. By comparison, away wins sit around 34% to 36%, while draws remain just 16% to 19%, confirming the strength of home advantage across the FA Cup.
  • Both Teams to Score (BTTS). BTTS outcomes in the FA Cup landed in 54% to 59% of matches over the last five years, showing how frequently both sides find the net. In 2022/23, Ashington AFC and Sevenoaks Town were regular contributors to high BTTS percentages, combining open attacking play with shaky defending. In 2024/25, Hednesford Town produced games where both teams scored in 70% of their fixtures, adding to the competition-wide average. With clean sheets rarely climbing above 46%, punters consistently find value backing BTTS.
  • Over 2.5 Goals. Over 2.5 Goals is one of the most profitable FA Cup betting markets. Goals per match have averaged 3.01 to 3.48 over the last five campaigns, with Over 2.5 cashing in 61% to 68% of fixtures depending on the season. The 2023/24 edition of the FA Cup hit the high point, averaging 3.48 goals per match, boosted by clubs such as Ramsgate and Cray Valley Paper Mills, who regularly produced games clearing the three-goal line. In 2022/23, Manchester City recorded emphatic wins, while sides like Beckenham Town also featured in consistently high-scoring encounters. Across all levels, mismatches between Premier League heavyweights and non-league sides fuel Over 2.5 returns, keeping it one of the most attractive FA Cup betting markets.

The table below summarises key FA Cup outcomes from the last five seasons for Match Result, BTTS and Over 2.5 Goals.

Season Match Result (Home Wins) Match Result (Draws) Match Result (Away Wins) BTTS (Yes) Over 2.5 Goals Avg. Goals / Match
2020/21 46% 18% 36% 54% 61% 3.19
2021/22 48% 16% 36% 50% 56% 3.01
2022/23 46% 19% 35% 56% 65% 3.23
2023/24 48% 18% 34% 59% 68% 3.48
2024/25 46% 19% 35% 56% 62% 3.12

FA Cup Season Guide

England’s FA Cup is the world’s oldest knockout competition, open across the pyramid from amateur sides to Premier League giants. The 2025/26 edition is the 145th season. Qualifying begins in August, the “proper” rounds start in November, and Wembley hosts the final in May. The winners of the FA Cup book a place in the 2026/27 UEFA Europa League. For readers comparing domestic cups, FA Cup insights often overlap with EFL Cup predictions, since both tournaments share knockout formats but differ in scheduling intensity and depth of entrants. The FA Cup stands out for its open participation that welcomes hundreds of non-league teams each year, and for its tradition of giant-killings that define English football heritage.

What Is the Format of the FA Cup 2025/26 Season?

The format of the FA Cup 2025/26 is a straight knockout from start to finish. A six-round qualifying competition runs through late summer and autumn, whittling hundreds of non-league entrants down to 32 clubs. These 32 join the 48 teams from League One and League Two in the First Round Proper (124 teams total). The second round of the FA Cup trims the field to 64, and the Third Round introduces the 44 clubs from the Premier League and Championship. From there, the bracket progresses through the Fourth Round, Fifth Round, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final at Wembley.

The proper rounds of the FA Cup tournament (from the First Round onward) no longer use replays. In cases where a tie is level after 90 minutes, it goes to extra time and, if needed, penalties on the day. Each FA Cup round is drawn at random with no seeding — any club in that round is paired with any other, and the first ball drawn hosts the tie. Prize money, prestige, and television selections sit alongside standard kick-off windows to spread fixtures. Beyond the trophy, FA Cup winners receive Europa League qualification for the following season.

What are the Start & End Dates for the FA Cup 2025/26?

The 2025/26 FA Cup runs from 1 November 2025 (First Round Proper) to 16 May 2026 (final at Wembley). Qualifying ties begin in August and end in October. The main draw runs on weekends, with the First Round in early November, Second in early December, Third in mid-January, Fourth in mid-February, Fifth in early March, quarter-finals in early April, semi-finals in late April, and the final in mid-May.

A recent calendar overhaul has shifted more FA Cup ties to weekends and set dedicated windows for the later rounds. Replays have been scrapped, so every tie is decided on the day, a change that eases winter scheduling and keeps the knockout flow steady from November to May.

How are FA Cup Fixtures built up?

FA Cup fixtures are built by a blind, computer-assisted draw before each round. There is no seeding in the main competition, meaning all clubs remaining in a round enter the same pot and each is assigned a number. Numbered balls are drawn one after another. The first club drawn becomes the home team and the second becomes the away team. The process continues until the pot is empty. This method allows Premier League heavyweights to meet immediately upon entry in the Third Round and it creates the famous moments when a big club travels to the ground of a non-league side.

Entry points in the FA Cup are staggered by level and this is the competition’s only structural filter. Non-league teams start in the qualifying stage, League One and League Two sides join in Round One, and Championship and Premier League clubs arrive in Round Three. After each FA Cup draw, broadcasters and police authorities shape the weekend schedule. Matches are placed into TV windows and safety and travel constraints are considered. Since 2024/25, the Fourth Round, Fifth Round and quarter-finals have had dedicated weekends without Premier League clashes. All proper-round FA Cup matches resolve on the day with extra time and penalties used if required. This change removed replay dates and streamlined the path to Wembley. Broadcast rights for the FA Cup competition belong to TNT Sports with free-to-air coverage shared on the BBC.

Related Leagues We Cover

Stay on top of Europe’s biggest football competitions with our expert predictions for other leagues and tournaments including the ones below.

  • EFL Cup Predictions. Our EFL Cup predictions explore England’s secondary knockout competition, covering key rounds and title favourites.
  • Premier League Predictions. Premier League forecasts analyse top-flight clubs, player form, and major domestic matchups.
  • Championship Predictions. Our Championship coverage follows promotion races, relegation fights, and the season’s most decisive fixtures.
  • Europa League Predictions. Europa League forecasts track leading European clubs aiming for continental success.
  • Champions League Predictions. Our Champions League predictions deliver expert analysis of Europe’s most prestigious competition from group stages to the final.
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