The FA Cup, the world’s oldest national football competition, has given fans decades of entertainment with countless unforgettable finals – since its inception in 1871.
At the time of writing (January 23, 2025), the current campaign is hurtling toward the fourth round, with plenty of fans tuning in for excitement, football spirit, and even some FA Cup betting.
But looking back over the years, the tournament’s finals have produced some of the most thrilling matchups filled with all the drama, upsets, and sheer footballing brilliance that fans expect to see.
Therefore, we’re taking a look at some of the most riveting FA Cup finals in history.
1953: Blackpool 4-3 Bolton Wanderers
One of the most famous FA Cup finals is one that was rightly named the “Matthews Final,” after Sir Stanley Matthews – legendary Blackpool winger. The 1953 FA Cup final saw Matthews lead a dramatic comeback against the Bolton Wanderers, who were up 3-1 with just over 20 minutes to go. Although fellow teammate Stan Mortensen scored a hat-trick to win 4-3, it was Matthews’ mesmerising dribbling and pinpoint crosses that stole the headlines, earning him his long-awaited FA Cup winner’s medal.
1973: Sunderland 1-0 Leeds United
The 1973 final is among the greatest FA Cup shocks of all time, since second-division Sunderland defied the odds to defeat the mighty Leeds United – who, at the time, were one of England’s dominant forces. A first-half goal from Ian Porterfield secured victory, but it was goalkeeper Jim Montgomery’s heroics that defined the match. His double save to deny the rivals an equaliser remains one of the most iconic moments in FA Cup history.
1981: Tottenham Hotspur 3-2 Manchester City (Replay)
The 1981 FA Cup final was a replay – which happened back then if there was a draw after extra time – between Tottenham and Manchester City. This matchup is remembered for one of the greatest goals ever scored at Wembley. Ricky Villa dribbled his way through City’s defence and topped it off with a composed finish, securing Spurs’ victory in extra time.
2001: Liverpool 2-1 Arsenal
Not only was this the first FA Cup final to take place outside of England – due to Wembley’s reconstruction – but Liverpool’s 2001 triumph over Arsenal is also known as the “Michael Owen Final.” Arsenal’s victory looked a sure thing as they dominated the match, but Owen produced a late brace, scoring in the 83rd and 88th minutes to snatch the trophy for the Reds. His lightning pace and precise finishing delivered Liverpool their first FA Cup since 1992.
2006: Liverpool 3-3 West Ham (Liverpool won on penalties)
The 2006 final, often described as the “Gerrard Final,” saw Liverpool looking to win their second FA Cup in a row against West Ham. The Hammers raced into a 2-0 lead, but Liverpool fought back, with Steven Gerrard scoring twice – including a thunderous last-minute equaliser from long range. After extra time brought no goals, Liverpool eventually triumphed in the penalty shootout. However, it’s Gerrard’s stunning performance that remains etched in FA Cup folklore.
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From classic comebacks to stunning upsets, these thrilling finals have contributed to the FA Cup’s enduring appeal as a tournament where anything can happen.
This year’s campaign continues to provide football fans with drama and excitement, ensuring its place among the sport’s most cherished traditions.
