FA Cup Fixtures 2023-24: Full Schedule and Key Matches
The Emirates FA Cup, the world's oldest domestic football competition, continues to captivate fans with its blend of unpredictability, passion, and sheer drama. As we head into the heart of the 2023-24 season, the FA Cup fixtures promise more giant-killings, heroic underdog tales, and blockbuster clashes between Premier League heavyweights. Sponsored by Emirates, this iconic tournament has been running since 1871, offering lower-league sides a shot at glory against the elite. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the full schedule, highlight must-watch games, and provide analysis on what makes the FA Cup so special.
Understanding the FA Cup Structure
The FA Cup's magic lies in its inclusive format. Starting from the Extra Preliminary Round in August, it features over 700 teams from across the English football pyramid. Qualifying rounds whittle down the field, with non-league clubs battling for a prestigious 'Proper' round spot. The first round proper kicks off in November, followed by escalating excitement through to the final at Wembley Stadium in May.
For the 2023-24 season, the third round proper—where Premier League and Championship teams enter—has already delivered unforgettable moments. Non-league Maidstone United's stunning victory over Stevenage set the tone for potential upsets, while Wigan Athletic's penalty shootout win over Carlisle added to the lore of last-minute heroics.
Key Dates for FA Cup 2023-24
- Third Round Proper: Weekend of January 6-7, 2024 – All 64 teams in action.
- Fourth Round Proper: Weekend of January 27-28, 2024 – Winners face tougher opposition.
- Fifth Round Proper: February 2024 – Quarter-final path begins to clear.
- Quarter-Finals: March 2024 – High-stakes drama intensifies.
- Semi-Finals: April 2024 – Wembley beckons for finalists.
- Final: Saturday, May 18, 2024 – The pinnacle of cup football.
With ties drawn live on BBC and talkSPORT, the anticipation builds with every ball pulled from the bag. Prize money escalates too: third-round winners pocket £105,000, rising to £2.12 million for semi-final victors.
Upcoming FA Cup Fixtures: Third Round Highlights
The third round draw, made on December 3, 2023, at St George's Park, set up a feast of intriguing matchups. Here's a selection of the standout fixtures, scheduled for the first weekend of 2024:
Premier League vs. Lower Leagues
Arsenal vs. Liverpool (January 7, 2pm GMT) – A mouthwatering all-Premier League tie pits Mikel Arteta's Gunners against Jurgen Klopp's Reds. With both chasing domestic trebles, this could be a preview of bigger battles. Arsenal's home form makes them favorites, but Liverpool's counter-attacking prowess ensures fireworks.
Manchester City vs. Huddersfield Town (January 7, 1:30pm GMT) – The defending champions host Championship strugglers Huddersfield. City, fresh off a Club World Cup triumph, will rotate squad but Pep Guardiola's depth is unmatched. Expect a comfortable win, but cup sets can surprise.
Tottenham Hotspur vs. Burnley (January 5, 8pm GMT) – Spurs welcome newly promoted Burnley in a Friday night thriller under the lights. Ange Postecoglou's attacking style vs. Vincent Kompany's pragmatic setup could produce goals galore.
Underdog Stories and Giant-Killings Potential
Maidstone United vs. Ipswich Town (January 6, 3pm GMT) – The National League South leaders, who already shocked League One Stevenage on penalties, face Championship high-flyers Ipswich. Maidstone's manager George Elokobi has instilled belief; this could be another fairy tale.
Sunderland vs. Shrewsbury Town (January 6, 2pm GMT) – League One Sunderland host League One rivals Shrewsbury. With Sunderland pushing for promotion, a slip-up here would be embarrassing, but Shrewsbury's resilience under Paul Hurst keeps it competitive.
Luton Town vs. Bolton Wanderers (January 7, 12:30pm GMT) – Premier League newcomers Luton entertain League One Bolton. The Hatters' remarkable rise from non-league adds emotional weight, but Bolton's cup pedigree (runners-up in 1958) demands respect.
Full third-round fixtures include over 30 ties, with 20 Premier League clubs entering the fray. Broadcasts on BBC, ITV, and streaming platforms ensure global access, while ticketing via club sites sells out fast.
Analysis: What to Expect in the FA Cup Run-In
The FA Cup's allure stems from its democratic ethos—no replays after fourth round, straight to penalties for added intrigue. Historically, 2023-24's early rounds saw non-league Tamworth and Curzon Ashton advance, echoing past shocks like Wrexham's 2022 run.
Premier League fatigue from packed schedules could fuel upsets. Manchester United, absent from the Carabao Cup quarters, view the FA Cup as redemption post-Europa League exit. Meanwhile, Erik ten Hag's side faces a tricky third-rounder against League One Cambridge United—prime giant-killing territory.
Looking ahead, the fourth-round draw on January 8 will reshape narratives. With £2 million in final prize money, every fixture matters. Data from Opta shows underdogs win 20% of third-round ties, underscoring the competition's volatility.
Tactical Insights and Player Spotlights
Teams like Newcastle United (vs. Sunderland in a Tyne-Wear derby) will leverage home advantage, but Eddie Howe's squad rotation amid injuries tests depth. Stars like Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) and Erling Haaland (City) could shine, yet cup ties often birth unlikely heroes—think Coventry's 1987 final winner Dave Bennett.
Sustainability efforts by the FA, including eco-friendly Wembley operations, align with modern football's ethos, ensuring the tournament's legacy endures.
Why the FA Cup Matters in 2024
Beyond fixtures, the FA Cup fosters community spirit. Grassroots clubs gain exposure, inspiring youth participation. As Everythiiing.com covers the beautiful game, we celebrate this tournament's role in uniting fans from Step 1 to the Premier League.
Stay tuned for live updates, results, and post-match analysis. Whether you're backing a minnow or a titan, the FA Cup fixtures deliver unbridled joy. Mark your calendars—the road to Wembley starts now!
(Word count: 752)
