Womens FA Cup: Chelsea, Chatham Town and the quarter-final draw
Introduction: Why the womens fa cup matters
The womens fa cup is the premier annual knockout competition in English women’s football and a major part of the domestic calendar. Its open format and long history make it a showcase for elite clubs and lower-tier underdogs alike. Interest in the tournament has continued to grow, with broad media coverage, TV picks for later rounds and final-day ticket sales drawing fans to Wembley.
Main developments and recent facts
Holders and notable results
Chelsea, the current holders, have been prominent throughout recent editions. They began their campaign emphatically with a 5-0 fourth-round victory over WSL2 side Crystal Palace, with Sam Kerr scoring twice. Chelsea then defeated Manchester United 3-0 in the Women’s FA Cup final at Wembley and completed a domestic treble. United States defender Naomi Girma described winning the FA Cup at Wembley with Chelsea as ‘the best thing you can ask for’.
Quarter-final draw and fixtures
The quarter-final stage has produced compelling ties. The draw set up high-profile matches including a Merseyside derby between Liverpool and Everton and a meeting that will see Tottenham Hotspur face holders Chelsea. Organisers have announced TV selections for quarter-final coverage, underlining the growing broadcast interest in the competition.
Underdogs and milestones
The competition continues to deliver surprise stories: Chatham Town progressed to the fifth round for the first time, while Birmingham City recorded a strong win against fourth-tier opposition. The tournament’s format allows lower-league clubs to test themselves against top-tier sides and occasionally advance to later rounds, a key element of the Cup’s appeal.
Logistics and prize details
For the 2025-26 season the competition is marketed as the Adobe Women’s FA Cup. Fans can now purchase tickets for the Adobe Women’s FA Cup Final on Sunday 31 May 2026. The Football Association has published the tournament rules and details of the prize fund for 2025-26, reflecting ongoing investment in the women’s game.
Conclusion: Significance and outlook
The womens fa cup remains a central showcase for English women’s football, combining elite competition with opportunities for smaller clubs. With holders Chelsea seeking to defend their crown and notable stories such as Chatham Town’s run, the competition looks set to sustain interest through to the final on 31 May 2026. Continued broadcast coverage and clear prize structures are likely to maintain momentum and grow the tournament’s profile in the seasons ahead.
