Top 10 Most Memorable FA Cup Draw Moments and Stories
Sports
The FA Cup draw has provided some of the most thrilling and dramatic moments in English football history. From David vs. Goliath matchups to controversial ball selections, these draws have created legends and heartbreak in equal measure.
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1. Manchester City vs. Wigan Athletic 2013 Final Draw
The draw that set up one of the biggest FA Cup final upsets in history. When non-league Wigan Athletic were paired with Manchester City, few predicted Roberto Martinez's side would triumph 1-0 at Wembley, creating one of the competition's greatest giant-killing stories.
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2. The 'Hot Balls' Controversy of 1999
Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger famously complained about 'hot balls' after his team repeatedly drew difficult away ties. The controversy led to increased scrutiny of the draw process and eventual changes to ensure complete transparency in ball selection.
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3. Bradford City's Dream Run Setup in 2013
The fourth-tier side's incredible journey to the League Cup final began with favorable FA Cup draws that built their confidence. Their giant-killing mentality developed through these early rounds helped them achieve one of the most remarkable cup runs in recent memory.
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4. Non-League Hereford United vs. Newcastle United 1972
When part-time Hereford United were drawn against First Division Newcastle United, it seemed like a routine victory for the Magpies. Instead, Ronnie Radford's famous long-range goal helped create one of the most iconic FA Cup upsets ever televised.
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5. The All-Premier League Fifth Round of 2019
A rare occurrence where the fifth round draw featured only Premier League teams, creating a mini-tournament within the competition. This draw eliminated the traditional charm of potential giant-killings but guaranteed high-quality matchups throughout the round.
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6. Sutton United vs. Arsenal 2017 Fourth Round
The draw that paired non-league Sutton United with Premier League giants Arsenal captured the nation's imagination. While Arsenal won 2-0, Sutton's 3G artificial pitch and passionate support made this tie a memorable David vs. Goliath encounter.
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7. Manchester United's 'Easy' Path to 1999 Treble
United's FA Cup draws in their historic treble season were remarkably kind, avoiding other top-flight teams until the semi-final. This fortunate draw sequence helped Sir Alex Ferguson manage his squad rotation during their unprecedented three-competition challenge.
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8. The Lincoln City Miracle Run of 2017
Non-league Lincoln City's draws against Ipswich Town, Brighton, and Burnley seemed daunting initially but proved perfect for their historic run. They became the first non-league team to reach the FA Cup quarter-finals in over 100 years.
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9. Chelsea's Home Advantage Streak 2007-2009
During their successful FA Cup campaigns, Chelsea enjoyed an unusual run of home draws that proved crucial to their victories. This sequence highlighted how important the draw can be in determining a team's path to Wembley glory.
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10. The Monday Night Draw Tradition
The traditional Monday evening FA Cup draw became appointment television for football fans across England. Conducted by former players and celebrities, these draws built anticipation and excitement, creating water cooler moments for the following day's conversations.
The FA Cup draw continues to be one of football's most anticipated events, capable of creating dreams and nightmares with the simple pull of numbered balls. Whether it's setting up giant-killing opportunities or controversial talking points, the draw remains central to the magic and unpredictability that makes the FA Cup England's most beloved domestic competition.