10 FA Cup Matches That Went to the Wire

10 FA Cup Matches That Went to the Wire

The FA Cup has a unique place in the hearts of football fans, offering drama, surprises, and unforgettable moments that make it one of the most cherished competitions in the world. Among its many memorable games are those that have kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last minute. These matches, often filled with tension, extraordinary performances, and last-gasp heroics, showcase the competition’s unpredictability and emotional pull. Here are ten FA Cup matches that truly went to the wire, proving why the tournament remains so special.

1. Liverpool vs. West Ham United (2006 Final)

Dubbed the "Gerrard Final," this match epitomised the drama of the FA Cup. West Ham United took an unexpected 2-0 lead, but Liverpool fought back with goals from Djibril Cissé and Steven Gerrard. When West Ham regained the lead, the game seemed theirs to win. However, Gerrard’s stunning injury-time equaliser from long range sent the game into extra time and then penalties. Liverpool’s goalkeeper Pepe Reina became the hero, saving three penalties to secure victory for his team. The match is widely regarded as one of the greatest FA Cup finals of all time.

2. Manchester United vs. Crystal Palace (1990 Final)

This pulsating encounter was packed with twists and turns. Crystal Palace took the lead through Gary O’Reilly, only for United to respond through Bryan Robson. Palace went ahead again in extra time thanks to Ian Wright, but United’s Mark Hughes equalised to force a replay. While the replay lacked the same intensity, the original final remains a classic example of an FA Cup match that went down to the wire.

3. Arsenal vs. Manchester United (1979 Final)

Known as the "Five-Minute Final," this match seemed straightforward for Arsenal, who were leading 2-0 as the game approached its conclusion. However, in a dramatic turn of events, Manchester United scored twice in quick succession to level the score. Just when extra time looked inevitable, Arsenal’s Alan Sunderland netted a late winner, securing a 3-2 victory. The final moments of this match have become legendary in FA Cup history.

4. Tottenham Hotspur vs. Manchester City (1981 Final Replay)

After the initial final ended in a 1-1 draw, the replay provided one of the most dramatic moments in FA Cup history. Ricky Villa’s solo goal, weaving through Manchester City’s defence before slotting home, sealed a 3-2 victory for Spurs. Villa’s strike remains one of the most iconic goals in the competition’s history, and the match itself was a gripping spectacle.

5. Chelsea vs. Leeds United (1970 Final Replay)

The 1970 FA Cup final replay between Chelsea and Leeds United was a brutal and fiercely contested match that went down to the wire. Played at Old Trafford, the game saw both teams battling for supremacy in a display of determination and resilience. David Webb’s extra-time goal secured a 2-1 victory for Chelsea, ending a gruelling contest that has since become legendary.

6. Portsmouth vs. Cardiff City (2008 Final)

While not as high-scoring as some other matches on this list, the 2008 final was a tense affair that kept fans engaged until the final whistle. Portsmouth’s Nwankwo Kanu scored the only goal of the game, but Cardiff City pushed hard for an equaliser, making for a nervy finish. Portsmouth’s victory marked a rare triumph for a smaller Premier League side and remains a cherished memory for their supporters.

7. Wolverhampton Wanderers vs. Leicester City (1949 Final)

The 1949 FA Cup final between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Leicester City was a thrilling encounter that had fans on edge. Wolves took the lead through Jesse Pye, and despite Leicester’s relentless efforts to equalise, a late goal from Sammy Smythe secured a 3-1 victory for Wolves. The match was a testament to the competitive spirit of the FA Cup and the unpredictability of its outcomes.

8. Wigan Athletic vs. Manchester City (2013 Final)

This match remains one of the greatest underdog stories in FA Cup history. Facing the might of Manchester City, Wigan Athletic defied all expectations. As the game seemed destined for extra time, Ben Watson’s injury-time header gave Wigan a stunning 1-0 victory. The moment marked the pinnacle of Wigan’s history and demonstrated the magic of the FA Cup, where anything is possible.

9. Everton vs. Sheffield Wednesday (1966 Final)

Everton’s comeback in the 1966 FA Cup final is the stuff of legend. Trailing 2-0 to Sheffield Wednesday, Everton mounted a remarkable recovery, scoring three goals to win 3-2. Derek Temple’s late winner completed the turnaround, capping a match that showcased the resilience and fighting spirit that defines the FA Cup.

10. Arsenal vs. Hull City (2014 Final)

Arsenal’s clash with Hull City in the 2014 final was a rollercoaster of emotions. Hull took a shock 2-0 lead within the first ten minutes, leaving Arsenal stunned. However, the Gunners fought back, with goals from Santi Cazorla and Laurent Koscielny forcing extra time. Aaron Ramsey’s late winner in extra time secured a 3-2 victory for Arsenal, ending their nine-year trophy drought in dramatic fashion.

Conclusion

The FA Cup has always been a stage for drama, and these ten matches exemplify its capacity to deliver unforgettable moments. From last-minute goals to dramatic comebacks, these games remind us why the competition remains beloved by football fans across the globe. The unpredictability, tension, and sheer excitement of these matches ensure that the FA Cup continues to hold a special place in the world of football.