The FA Cup, the world’s oldest national football competition, has delivered countless unforgettable finals since its inception in 1872. As we approach the 144th final on May 17, 2025, between Manchester City and Crystal Palace, let’s revisit some of the most memorable FA Cup finals in history.
1988: Wimbledon 1–0 Liverpool
The 1988 FA Cup final is etched in football history as one of the greatest underdog triumphs. Wimbledon, nicknamed “The Crazy Gang,” shocked the footballing world by defeating a dominant Liverpool side, widely regarded as one of the best teams of the era. Lawrie Sanchez scored the game’s only goal with a deft header from a Dennis Wise free-kick, sending shockwaves through Wembley Stadium.
Goalkeeper Dave Beasant cemented his place in history by becoming the first to save a penalty in an FA Cup final, denying John Aldridge from the spot. Wimbledon’s gritty performance and fearless spirit epitomized their underdog story, while the result underscored the unpredictable magic of the FA Cup and successful long-shot bets which are quite high-risk, unlike easy casino games you can discover more here. The victory remains Wimbledon’s crowning achievement and a testament to football’s capacity for the extraordinary.
2006: Liverpool 3–3 West Ham United (Liverpool Won On Penalties)
The 2006 FA Cup final, often called “The Gerrard Final,” is remembered as one of the most thrilling matches in the competition’s history. West Ham United took a surprising early lead, thanks to an own goal by Jamie Carragher and a strike from Dean Ashton.
Djibril Cissé and Steven Gerrard brought Liverpool back into the game with two goals to level the score.
Late in the second half, West Ham’s Paul Konchesky lofted a seemingly innocuous cross that floated into the net, putting the Hammers ahead once again.
In stoppage time, Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard produced a breathtaking 35-yard volley to equalize, sending the game into extra time and ultimately to penalties. Liverpool triumphed in the shootout, with goalkeeper Pepe Reina making crucial saves. Gerrard’s heroics and the dramatic twists of the match solidified its place as one of the all-time great FA Cup finals.
2013: Wigan Athletic 1–0 Manchester City
The 2013 FA Cup final was a true David versus Goliath story, with Wigan Athletic pulling off one of the greatest upsets in the competition’s history. Facing a star-studded Manchester City side, Wigan, who were battling relegation from the Premier League, defied all odds.
The match remained goalless until stoppage time when substitute Ben Watson headed in a dramatic winner from Shaun Maloney’s corner, securing Wigan’s first-ever major trophy.
Wigan’s disciplined defensive performance and determination highlighted their underdog spirit, while Manchester City’s inability to break them down resulted in one of the most shocking outcomes in FA Cup history.
Though Wigan would face relegation just days later, their triumph at Wembley remains a defining moment for the club and a testament to the unpredictability of football.
Anticipating the 2025 FA Cup Final: Manchester City vs. Crystal Palace
The upcoming final at Wembley Stadium on May 17, 2025, promises to be a captivating encounter between Manchester City and Crystal Palace. While Man City is considered a high favourite, this would not be an easy game, unlike easy games you can discover more here.
This final marks the first FA Cup final meeting between the two clubs. In their Premier League encounters this season, Manchester City defeated Crystal Palace 5–2 in April, while the earlier fixture in December ended in a 2–2 draw.
As the 2025 FA Cup final approaches, fans eagerly anticipate whether Manchester City will add another trophy to their collection or if Crystal Palace will etch their name into football history with a first-ever major title.
