FA Cup Live on TV -The FA Cup, England’s premier domestic football competition, captivates fans worldwide with its rich history and thrilling matches. As the 2024-2025 season progresses, numerous fixtures are scheduled to be broadcast live on television, offering fans the opportunity to witness the excitement firsthand.
Understanding the FA Cup
Established in 1871, the FA Cup is the oldest national football competition globally. It features clubs from various tiers of English football, culminating in a final at Wembley Stadium. The tournament is renowned for its unpredictability, with lower-league teams often challenging top-tier clubs.
Broadcasting Rights and Coverage
In the United Kingdom, the FA Cup’s broadcasting rights are shared between BBC and ITV. BBC typically broadcasts 18 live matches per season, while ITV covers at least 20 games. These matches are available on their respective channels and streaming platforms, BBC iPlayer and ITVX.
For international audiences, ESPN holds the rights to broadcast FA Cup matches in the United States. ESPN+ streams a selection of fixtures, providing comprehensive coverage throughout the tournament.
Upcoming FA Cup Fixtures (February 2025)
As of February 14, 2025, the FA Cup is entering its fifth round. The schedule for the upcoming matches is as follows:
Manchester United vs. Leicester City
Date: Friday, February 7, 2025
Time: 8:00 PM GMT
Broadcast: ITV1, UTV, STV, and ITVX
Leyton Orient vs. Manchester City
Date: Saturday, February 8, 2025
Time: 12:15 PM GMT
Broadcast: BBC One and BBC iPlayer
Evertn vs. Bournemouth
Date: Saturday, February 8, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM GMT
Broadcast: ITV1, UTV, STV, and ITVX
Plymouth Argyle vs. Liverpool
Date: Sunday, February 9, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM GMT
Broadcast: BBC One and BBC iPlayer
Aston Villa vs. Tottenham Hotspur
Date: Sunday, February 9, 2025
Time: 4:30 PM GMT
Broadcast: ITV1, UTV, STV, and ITVX
Doncaster Rovers vs. Crystal Palace
Date: Monday, February 10, 2025
Time: 7:45 PM GMT
Broadcast: BBC One and BBC iPlayer
Nottingham Forest vs. Exeter City
Date: Tuesday, February 11, 2025
Time: 7:45 PM GMT
Broadcast: ITV1, UTV, STV, and ITVX
These fixtures are subject to change; fans are advised to check the official FA Cup website or their local broadcasters for the most current information.
How to Watch FA Cup Matches
United Kingdom: Matches are broadcast on BBC One, ITV1, and their respective streaming platforms, BBC iPlayer and ITVX.
United States: ESPN and ESPN+ provide coverage of FA Cup matches. ESPN+ offers streaming of select fixtures, while ESPN broadcasts select matches on television.
Australia: Optus Sport holds the rights to broadcast FA Cup matches, offering comprehensive coverage throughout the tournament.
Global Broadcast Partners
The FA Cup is broadcast worldwide through various partners, ensuring global access to the tournament. For a comprehensive list of international broadcasters, fans can refer to the official FA Cup website.
Streaming Options
For fans who prefer streaming, several platforms offer live coverage of FA Cup matches:
BBC iPlayer: Provides live streaming of matches broadcast on BBC One.
ITVX: Offers live streaming of matches broadcast on ITV1.
ESPN+: Streams select FA Cup fixtures in the United States.
Optus Sport: Streams all FA Cup matches in Australia.
Accessing FA Cup Coverage in India
In India, FA Cup matches are typically not broadcast on mainstream television channels. However, fans can access live streams through official broadcasters’ websites or streaming platforms that offer international sports content. It’s advisable to check with local sports streaming services for availability.
The FA Cup continues to be a highlight of the football calendar, offering fans worldwide the chance to witness exciting matches and potential upsets. With comprehensive coverage across various platforms, supporters can enjoy the tournament from the comfort of their homes. Staying informed about match schedules and broadcast details ensures that fans do not miss out on the action.
Faqs
What is the FA Cup?
The FA Cup, officially known as the Emirates FA Cup, is the oldest football competition in the world, featuring clubs from various tiers of English football. The 2024–25 season marks its 144th edition.
When is the FA Cup Fifth Round scheduled?
The FA Cup Fifth Round is scheduled for the week commencing Monday, February 24, 2025. The exact dates and times of the matches are yet to be confirmed.
Which matches will be broadcast live on TV?
The BBC and ITV have secured the rights to broadcast select FA Cup Fifth Round matches live. The specific fixtures and their broadcast details will be announced closer to the match dates.
How can I watch the FA Cup matches on TV?
In the UK, FA Cup matches are typically broadcast on BBC One, ITV, and their respective streaming platforms, BBC iPlayer and ITVX. Ensure you have access to these channels or streaming services to watch the matches live.
Are there any changes to the FA Cup schedule this season?
Yes, this season marks the first edition of the FA Cup to be played without replays in the proper rounds since the 2020–21 season. Additionally, the final will be played one week before the end of the Premier League season.
Will VAR be used in the FA Cup?
VAR (Video Assistant Referee) will be used in all FA Cup matches from the Fifth Round onwards. This is a change from previous seasons, where VAR was used only in matches held in Premier League grounds and at Wembley Stadium.
How can I find out the exact dates and times of the FA Cup Fifth Round matches?
The exact dates and times of the FA Cup Fifth Round matches will be confirmed by the Football Association and broadcast partners closer to the match dates. For the most up-to-date information, regularly check the official FA Cup website and announcements from BBC and ITV.
Will the FA Cup matches be available for replay?
Yes, FA Cup matches are often available for replay on the BBC iPlayer and ITVX platforms after the live broadcast. Availability may vary, so it’s advisable to check these platforms following the match.
Can I watch the FA Cup matches if I am outside the UK?
Yes, FA Cup matches are broadcast internationally. In the United States, for example, they are typically shown on ESPN and streamed on ESPN+. Availability varies by country, so it’s best to check with local broadcasters or streaming services for details.
When and where is the FA Cup Final scheduled?
The FA Cup Final is scheduled to take place at Wembley Stadium in London on Saturday, May 17, 2025. This is the traditional venue and date for the final match of the competition.
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