The third round draw of the FA Cup, one of football's most anticipated events, is around the corner, and excitement is heating up among clubs and fans alike. Scheduled for Monday evening, December 2, it promises to set the stage for thrilling matchups as the tournament continues to showcase some of the sport's most iconic moments.
This round marks the entry of all Premier League and Championship teams, alongside the clubs who have made their way through the earlier rounds. Fans are buzzing, especially since last year’s champions, Manchester United, will be working hard to defend their title under the leadership of their new manager, Ruben Amorim.
Among the lower-tier teams still hoping for success, Harborough Town and Kettering Town from the seventh tier maintain dreams of creating upset victories to secure marquee matchups. This year, the spotlight will increasingly shine on these underdogs as supporters hope for magic moments.
So, what do you need to know about the draw? Here’s everything you need to get prepared for this exciting evening!
When Will the Draw Take Place?
The 2024/25 FA Cup third round draw is set for Monday, December 2, and it will be broadcast across the BBC. While the exact timing isn't nailed down yet, the coverage is expected to kick off around 7 pm and wrap up by 7:30 pm.
How Can You Watch the Draw?
If you’re eager to catch all the action live, you're in luck! The draw will be aired on BBC Two, and you can also stream it for free via the BBC Sport website and BBC iPlayer. For those who prefer social media, be sure to follow the Emirates FA Cup channels for live updates.
What Are the Ball Numbers for the Draw?
The official ball numbers for the draw have yet to be finalized, which adds to the suspense as teams await their fates.
When Are the Third-Round Games Scheduled?
Mark your calendars! The FA Cup third round is slated to take place over the weekend of January 11, 2025. Matches are expected to occur across the dates of January 10/11/12/13, 2025. Teams victorious at this stage stand to gain significantly, with each club qualified to receive £115,000 from the competition's prize fund for advancing.
From historic encounters to shocking upsets, the FA Cup consistently delivers high drama, and this third round draw is no exception. With clubs from across the English Football League eager to etch their names in the competition’s lore, fans can expect nothing less than exhilarating matches as the tournament marches on. Who will emerge victorious, and which lower-tier teams will rise to the occasion? Stay tuned as the excitement builds!