The FA Cup, one of the most prestigious domestic soccer competitions in the world, has a rich history spanning over a century.
The competition continues to evolve, embracing the digital age and engaging fans on a global scale. The tradition and magic of the tournament remain intact, captivating audiences and providing an avenue for dreams to be achieved .
As I reflect on the FA Cup winners from 1871, it is important to remember that the journey to glory is not solely defined by the winners.
The FA Cup represents the essence of football – a game where anything can happen, where dreams can be fulfilled, and where the magic of the sport comes alive. It is a symbol of passion, resilience, and the pursuit of greatness.
And the winners have left an indelible legacy, and their names will forever be etched in football folklore.
Their victories serve as a testament to the spirit of competition, the pursuit of excellence, and the enduring love affair between fans and the beautiful game.
Early Years (1871-1900)
The FA Cup was first played in the 1871-72 season, with the Wanderers emerging as the inaugural winners.
In the early years, clubs like Blackburn Rovers, Aston Villa, and Sheffield Wednesday made their mark, setting the stage for a competition that would captivate soccer fans for generations.
Notable moments include the first-ever replayed final in 1876 when Wanderers overcame Old Etonians, and the dominance of Blackburn Rovers, who clinched the cup in three consecutive seasons (1884-1886).
20th Century, The Birth of Rivalries (1901-1950)
The early years of the FA Cup were marred by a pioneering spirit, as the competition laid the foundation for football’s popularity.
Wanderers, one of the dominant teams of the era, won the first three FA Cups, establishing themselves as early football giants.
The likes of Royal Engineers, Old Etonians, and Oxford University also left their mark, showing the diversity and unpredictability of the tournament.
During this time, the FA Cup gained traction, captivating fans and setting the stage for future glory.
Golden Era (1951-1979)
The period between the 1950s and 1970s saw the emergence of dominant forces in English football.
Wolverhampton Wanderers, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Liverpool all enjoyed success in the FA Cup during this era.
The charismatic Busby Babes of Manchester United, led by Sir Matt Busby, captured the hearts of the nation in the 1950s, while Arsenal’s double triumph in 1971 remains a historic achievement.
Liverpool’s dominance in the 1970s builds up to four FA Cup victories, showing the club’s relentless pursuit of glory.
Underdog Triumphs (1980-2000)
The FA Cup has a long-standing tradition of producing memorable upsets and underdog triumphs.
This period witnessed some of the most remarkable and unexpected victories in the competition’s history.
Coventry City’s win over Tottenham Hotspur in the 1987 final, Wimbledon’s shocking win against Liverpool in 1988, and Sunderland’s memorable victory over Leeds United in 1973 are just a few examples of the FA Cup’s ability to create magical moments.
Modern Era (2001-Present)
In recent times, the FA Cup has continued to captivate fans worldwide, with a mix of traditional giants and surprising contenders battling for glory.
The turn of the century saw Arsenal establish themselves as a dominant force, winning the cup several times under Arsène Wenger. Chelsea, Manchester United, and Manchester City have also enjoyed success in the modern era, solidifying their status as elite clubs.
Memorable Moments
Throughout its rich history, the FA Cup has produced lots of legendary finals and unforgettable moments.
From dramatic last-minute goals to thrilling penalty shootouts, these memorable scenes have etched themselves into the hearts and minds of fans.
The iconic “Matthews Final” in 1953, where Stanley Matthews inspired Blackpool to a remarkable comeback, remains one of the most celebrated matches in FA Cup history.
Likewise, the “Gerrard Final” in 2006, where Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard led his team to an extraordinary comeback against West Ham United, will forever be etched in the annals of the competition.
These moments epitomize the magic of the FA Cup and continue to be cherished by soccer fans worldwide.
The Wider Impact
The FA Cup is not just about the glory on the pitch; it also has a profound impact on communities and individuals.
The competition provides smaller clubs with a platform to showcase their talent and unite their local communities.
The dreams of players, fans, and managers alike come to life in the FA Cup, where a single victory against a giant can change the course of a club’s history.
The tradition of cup upsets, combined with the magic of the knockout format, inspires hope and fuels the dreams of football enthusiasts from all walks of life.
The FA Cup represents the essence of the beautiful game, reminding us that football is not solely about the pursuit of silverware but also about the joy, camaraderie, and unity it brings.
Top 10 FA Cup Winners
Arsenal -14x
Arsenal is the most successful club in FA Cup history, having won the trophy 14 times.
They achieved this feat by winning the cup in various years, including 1930, 1936, 1971, 2003, and 2014.
Manchester United -12x
The Red Devils have won the FA Cup 12 times.
Their victories include memorable moments like the “Treble” win in 1999 when they secured the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League titles in the same season.
Chelsea -8x
The West London club has lifted the FA Cup on 8 occasions.
They have been successful in recent years, winning the cup in 2007, 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2018.
Tottenham Hotspur-8x
The Lilywhites have won the FA Cup 8 times, with victories in 1901, 1921, 1961, 1962, 1967, 1981, 1982, and 1991.
Liverpool-7x
The Kop has secured the FA Cup 7 times.
They have been successful in different eras, winning the Cup in 1965, 1974, 1986, 1989, 1992, 2001, and 2006.
Aston Villa-7x
The Villans has won the FA Cup 7 times as well.
They had notable successes in the early years, winning the cup in 1887, 1895, 1897, 1905, 1913, 1920, and 1957.
Manchester City-6x
The Cityzens have lifted the FA Cup 6 times.
Their victories include wins in 1904, 1934, 1956, 1969, 2011, and 2019.
Newcastle United-6x
The Magpies have won the FA Cup 6 times, with victories in 1910, 1924, 1932, 1951, 1952, and 1955.
Blackburn Rovers-6x
The Riversiders as mentioned earlier, have won the FA Cup 6 times.
They achieved their wins in 1884, 1885, 1886, 1890, 1891, and 1928.
Everton-5x
Everton completes the top ten list with 5 FA Cup wins.
They were successful in 1906, 1933, 1966, 1984, and 1995.
FA Cup Winners From 1871 Till Date
| Year | Winner | Runner-Up | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Liverpool | Chelsea | 0-0 (p 6–5) |
| 2021 | Leicester City | Chelsea | 1-0 |
| 2020 | Arsenal | Chelsea | 2-1 |
| 2019 | Manchester City | Watford | 6-0 |
| 2018 | Chelsea | Manchester | 1–0 |
| 2017 | Arsenal | Chelsea | 2–1 |
| 2016 | Manchester United | Crystal Palace | 2–1 aet |
| 2015 | Arsenal | Aston Villa | 4–0 |
| 2014 | Arsenal | Hull City | 3–2 aet |
| 2013 | Wigan Athletic | Manchester City | 1–0 |
| 2012 | Chelsea | Liverpool | 2–1 |
| 2011 | Manchester City | Stoke City | 1-0 |
| 2010 | Chelsea | Portsmouth | 1-0 |
| 2009 | Chelsea | Everton | 2-1 |
| 2008 | Portsmouth | Cardiff City | 1-0 |
| 2007 | Chelsea | Manchester United | 1-0 |
| 2006 | Liverpool | West Ham United | 3-3 aet |
| 2005 | Arsenal | Manchester United | 0-0 aet |
| 2004 | Manchester United | Millwall | 3-0 |
| 2003 | Arsenal | Southampton | 1-0 |
| 2002 | Arsenal | Chelsea | 2-0 |
| 2001 | Liverpool | Arsenal | 2-1 |
| 2000 | Chelsea | Aston Villa | 1-0 |
| 1999 | Manchester United | Newcastle United | 2-0 |
| 1998 | Arsenal | Newcastle United | 2-0 |
| 1997 | Chelsea | Middlesbrough | 2-0 |
| 1996 | Manchester United | Liverpool | 1-0 |
| 1995 | Everton | Manchester United | 1-0 |
| 1994 | Manchester United | Chelsea | 4-0 |
| 1993 – replay | Arsenal | Sheffield Wednesday | 2-1 aet |
| 1993 – the first game | Arsenal | Sheffield Wednesday | 1-1 aet |
| 1992 | Liverpool | Sunderland | 2-0 |
| 1991 | Tottenham Hotspur | Nottingham Forest | 2-1 aet |
| 1990 – replay | Manchester United | Crystal Palace | 1-0 |
| 1990 | Manchester United | Crystal Palace | 3-3 aet |
| 1989 | Liverpool | Everton | 3-2 aet |
| 1988 | Wimbledon | Liverpool | 1-0 |
| 1987 | Coventry City | Tottenham Hotspur | 3-2 aet |
| 1986 | Liverpool | Everton | 3-1 |
| 1985 | Manchester United | Everton | 1-0 aet |
| 1984 | Everton | Watford | 2-0 |
| 1983 – replay | Manchester United | Brighton and Hove Albion | 4-0 |
| 1983 | Manchester United | Brighton and Hove Albion | 2-2 aet |
| 1982 – replay | Tottenham Hotspur | Queens Park Rangers | 1-0 |
| 1982 | Tottenham Hotspur | Queens Park Rangers | 1-1 aet |
| 1981 – replay | Tottenham Hotspur | Manchester City | 3-2 |
| 1981 | Tottenham Hotspur | Manchester City | 1-1 aet |
| 1980 | West Ham United | Arsenal | 1-0 |
| 1979 | Arsenal | Manchester United | 3-2 |
| 1978 | Ipswich Town | Arsenal | 1-0 |
| 1977 | Manchester United | Liverpool | 2-1 |
| 1976 | Southampton | Manchester United | 1-0 |
| 1975 | West Ham United | Fulham | 2-0 |
| 1974 | Liverpool | Newcastle United | 3-0 |
| 1973 | Sunderland | Leeds United | 1-0 |
| 1972 | Leeds United | Arsenal | 1-0 |
| 1971 | Arsenal | Liverpool | 2-1 aet |
| 1970 – replay | Chelsea | Leeds United | 2-1 |
| 1970 | Chelsea | Leeds United | 2-2 aet |
| 1969 | Manchester City | Leicester City | 1-0 |
| 1968 | West Bromwich Albion | Everton | 1-0 aet |
| 1967 | Tottenham Hotspur | Chelsea | 2-1 |
| 1966 | Everton | Sheffield Wednesday | 3-2 |
| 1965 | Liverpool | Leeds United | 2-1 aet |
| 1964 | West Ham United | Preston North End | 3-2 |
| 1963 | Manchester United | Leicester City | 3-1 |
| 1962 | Tottenham Hotspur | Burnley | 3-1 |
| 1961 | Tottenham Hotspur | Leicester City | 2-0 |
| 1960 | Wolverhampton Wanderers | Blackburn Rovers | 3-0 |
| 1959 | Nottingham Forest | Luton Town | 2-1 |
| 1958 | Bolton Wanderers | Manchester United | 2-0 |
| 1957 | Aston Villa | Manchester United | 2-1 |
| 1956 | Manchester City | Birmingham City | 3-1 |
| 1955 | Newcastle United | Manchester City | 3-1 |
| 1954 | West Bromwich Albion | Preston North End | 3-2 |
| 1953 | Blackpool | Bolton Wanderers | 4-3 |
| 1952 | Newcastle United | Arsenal | 1-0 |
| 1951 | Newcastle United | Blackpool | 2-0 |
| 1950 | Arsenal | Liverpool | 2-0 |
| 1949 | Wolverhampton Wanderers | Leicester City | 3-1 |
| 1948 | Manchester United | Blackpool | 4-2 |
| 1947 | Charlton Athletic | Burnley | 1-0 aet |
| 1946 | Derby County | Charlton Athletic | 4-1 aet |
| 1939 | Portsmouth | Wolverhampton Wanderers | 4-1 |
| 1938 | Preston North End | Huddersfield Town | 1-0 aet |
| 1937 | Sunderland | Preston North End | 3-1 |
| 1936 | Arsenal | Sheffield United | 1-0 |
| 1935 | Sheffield Wednesday | West Bromwich Albion | 4-2 |
| 1934 | Manchester City | Portsmouth | 2-1 |
| 1933 | Everton | Manchester City | 3-0 |
| 1932 | Newcastle United | Arsenal | 2-1 |
| 1931 | West Bromwich Albion | Birmingham City | 2-1 |
| 1930 | Arsenal | Huddersfield Town | 2-0 |
| 1929 | Bolton Wanderers | Portsmouth | 2-0 |
| 1928 | Blackburn Rovers | Huddersfield Town | 3-1 |
| 1927 | Cardiff City | Arsenal | 1-0 |
| 1926 | Bolton Wanderers | Manchester City | 1-0 |
| 1925 | Sheffield United | Cardiff City | 1-0 |
| 1924 | Newcastle United | Aston Villa | 2-0 |
| 1923 | Bolton Wanderers | West Ham United | 2-0 |
| 1922 | Huddersfield Town | Preston North End | 1-0 |
| 1921 | Tottenham Hotspur | Wolverhampton Wanderers | 1-0 |
| 1920 | Aston Villa | Huddersfield Town | 1-0 aet |
| 1915 | Sheffield United | Chelsea | 3-0 |
| 1914 | Burnley | Liverpool | 1-0 |
| 1913 | Aston Villa | Sunderland | 1-0 |
| 1912 – replay | Barnsley | West Bromwich Albion | 1-0 |
| 1912 | Barnsley | West Bromwich Albion | 0-0 |
| 1911 – replay | Bradford City | Newcastle United | 1-0 |
| 1911 | Bradford City | Newcastle United | 0-0 |
| 1910- replay | Newcastle United | Barnsley | 2-0 |
| 1910 | Newcastle United | Barnsley | 1-1 |
| 1909 | Manchester United | Bristol City | 1-0 |
| 1908 | Wolverhampton Wanderers | Newcastle United | 3-1 |
| 1907 | Sheffield Wednesday | Everton | 2-1 |
| 1906 | Everton | Newcastle United | 1-0 |
| 1905 | Aston Villa | Newcastle United | 2-0 |
| 1904 | Manchester City | Bolton Wanderers | 1-0 |
| 1903 | Bury | Derby County | 6-0 |
| 1902 – replay | Sheffield United | Southampton | 2-1 |
| 1902 | Sheffield United | Southampton | 1-1 |
| 1901 – replay | Tottenham Hotspur | Sheffield United | 3-1 |
| 1901 | Tottenham Hotspur | Sheffield United | 2-2 |
| 1900 | Bury | Southampton | 4-0 |
| 1899 | Sheffield United | Derby County | 4-1 |
| 1898 | Nottingham Forest | Derby County | 3-1 |
| 1897 | Aston Villa | Everton | 3-2 |
| 1896 | Sheffield Wednesday | Wolverhampton Wanderers | 2-1 |
| 1895 | Aston Villa | West Bromwich Albion | 1-0 |
| 1894 | Notts County | Bolton Wanderers | 4-1 |
| 1893 | Wolverhampton Wanderers | Everton | 1-0 |
| 1892 | West Bromwich Albion | Aston Villa | 3-0 |
| 1891 | Blackburn Rovers | Notts County | 3-1 |
| 1890 | Blackburn Rovers | Sheffield Wednesday | 6-1 |
| 1889 | Preston North End | Wolverhampton Wanderers | 3-0 |
| 1888 | West Bromwich Albion | Preston North End | 2-1 |
| 1887 | Aston Villa | West Bromwich Albion | 2-0 |
| 1886 – replay | Blackburn Rovers | West Bromwich Albion | 2-0 |
| 1886 – the first game | Blackburn Rovers | West Bromwich Albion | 0-0 |
| 1885 | Blackburn Rovers | Queens Park, Glasgow | 2-0 |
| 1884 | Blackburn Rovers | Queens Park, Glasgow | 2-1 |
| 1883 | Blackburn Olympic | Old Etonians | 2-1 aet |
| 1882 | Old Etonians | Blackburn Rovers | 1-0 |
| 1881 | Old Carthusians | Old Etonians | 3-0 |
| 1880 | Clapham Rovers | Oxford University | 1-0 |
| 1879 | Old Etonians | Clapham Rovers | 1-0 |
| 1878 | Wanderers | Royal Engineers | 3-1 |
| 1877 | Wanderers | Oxford University | 2-1 aet |
| 1876 – replay | Wanderers | Old Etonians | 3-0 |
| 1876 | Wanderers | Old Etonians | 1-1 aet |
| 1875 – replay | Royal Engineers | Old Etonians | 2-0 |
| 1875 – the first game | Royal Engineers | Old Etonians | 1-1 aet |
| 1874 | Oxford University | Royal Engineers | 2-0 |
| 1873 | Wanderers | Oxford University | 2-0 |
| 1872 | Wanderers | Royal Engineers | 1-0 |
FAQs
Where Is The FA Cup Final Played?
Wembley Stadium in London, England.
The stadium is a historic and iconic venue known for hosting major football matches and other sporting events.
It has been the home of the FA Cup final since 1923, with exceptions during certain periods when the final was held at other stadiums due to Wembley’s renovations.
However, the majority of FA Cup finals have taken place at Wembley Stadium.
How Old Is The FA Cup?
153 yrs
As of the time of writing this May 2023, the FA Cup is 153 years old.
It was first played in the 1871-72 season, making it one of the oldest football competitions in the world.
Who Was The First FA Cup Winner?
Wanderers!
The first team to win the FA Cup was the Wanderers. They emerged as the inaugural winners of the FA Cup in the 1871-72 season.
Wrapping up
Sure by now, you’ve read through each of the winners, knowing the FA Cup is not just a trophy; it is a symbol of the enduring power of soccer to unite, inspire, and create lasting memories.
