The excitement is building as the FA Cup third round approaches! This special stage of the tournament is set to kick off soon, featuring 64 teams including 44 from the Premier League and Championship along with 20 lower-league and non-league clubs. From thrilling rivalries to unexpected upsets, this round promises to deliver fantastic moments for football fans across Australia and beyond.
The FA Cup Third Round
The FA Cup is renowned as one of the most exciting football competitions in the world. For the third round, which runs from Thursday to Monday, the atmosphere is electric as teams across the country compete for glory. This year, 32 ties bring together a mix of clubs, providing fans with a chance to cheer on their favorites, whether they’re a mighty Premier League side or an underdog from a lower division.
Must-Watch Matches
Among the standout highlights, fans should mark their calendars for key matches. One of the most anticipated matchups is the clash between Arsenal and Manchester United, set for January 12th at 3 PM. Tottenham will also face Tamworth earlier on the same day at 12:30 PM, while Newcastle will take on Bromley in another thrilling match at 3 PM. With so many talented teams competing, there’s bound to be plenty of drama on the pitch!
How to Follow the Action
If you’re eager to catch all the thrilling FA Cup action, you have several options. The matches will be televised live on BBC and ITV, giving fans free-to-air access to some of the best moments in football. For those who prefer to stream, both BBC iPlayer and ITVX will provide live coverage online, making it easy to watch from anywhere!
- Key Broadcasting Details:
- Arsenal vs. Manchester United on January 12th at 3 PM
- Tottenham vs. Tamworth on January 12th at 12:30 PM
- Newcastle vs. Bromley on January 12th at 3 PM
- Live coverage on BBC and ITV
- Streaming available through BBC iPlayer and ITVX
Notable FA Cup Records
The FA Cup is not just famous for its excitement; it also holds a prestigious history. Did you know that the FA Cup is the world’s oldest national soccer tournament? It began way back in 1871-72, with the first final seeing Wanderers take home the trophy after a narrow 1-0 victory against the Royal Engineers. Over the years, Arsenal has claimed the title a record 14 times, closely followed by Manchester United with 13 wins!
Current Champions and Their Journey
This year’s competition has an interesting twist: Manchester United, the reigning champions, will be looking to defend their title under unique circumstances. With their manager Erik ten Hag currently absent, the coaching staff will have their work cut out for them as they aim to lead the team to another FA Cup triumph!
The Changing Face of FA Cup Broadcasting
As we enjoy this season of the FA Cup, it’s essential to look ahead. The current TV rights deal ends this season, meaning there will be some changes in how we enjoy our football. From the 2025-26 season onwards, TNT Sports will take over broadcasting rights, promising exciting coverage of future matches.
Conclusion
So there you have it! The FA Cup third round is shaping up to be a thrilling event for fans and players alike. Whether you’re supporting your local team or cheering for a big club, there’s a sense of togetherness that comes with the FA Cup – a competition that has captivated fans for generations. Let’s get ready for some unforgettable football!