Women’s FA Cup final 2025/26: Stars, schedule, and how to watch Brighton vs Manchester City live

Sunday (31 May) will mark the 56th Women’s FA Cup final, with Brighton and Manchester City going head-to-head in a bid to land one of football’s most coveted prizes at Wembley Stadium.

A tournament that began with 538 clubs in the preliminary round now sees just two sides remaining in the hunt for glory.

Brighton are looking to clinch what would be their first major piece of silverware, while City are aiming to complete the domestic double by winning this competition for the first time since 2019/20.

Ahead of the final, here are the key things you need to know.

From Menina to Manchester: Yui Hasegawa’s case for being the most complete midfielder in women’s football

Women’s FA Cup Final 2025/26: Players to watch

There have arguably been few more important transfers in Brighton’s history than that of Fran Kirby, who arrived at the club in 2024. The 32-year-old joined from Chelsea and has gone on to prove that she still has much to offer on the pitch. A creative cog in a well-oiled machine, Kirby has raised the Seagulls' level, bringing experience and a winning mentality that will be vital in the final. She has won this competition five times before, making her a crucial member of the squad heading to Wembley.

Chiamaka Nnadozie dons the goalkeeper jersey for the South Coast club. Still only 25, she finished fourth in the running for the inaugural Women’s Yashin Trophy, which recognises the best shot-stoppers in the world. Up against formidable attackers in Sunday’s final, the Nigeria international will likely have a huge part to play. Kiko Seike has equally been a brilliant addition to the squad, with a knack for finding the back of the net in crucial moments. The 29-year-old Japan international will need to be at her best to fire past a resolute City defence.

Manchester City will be coming into Sunday’s final on a high, having recently been crowned Women’s Super League champions. Not only that, prolific forward and key player Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw has penned a new long-term contract with the club. Heavily tipped to leave in the summer, with league rivals Chelsea the favourites for her signature, her presence may be the boost City need to complete the domestic double.

There is a strong argument for any one of Lauren Hemp, Kerolin, Mary Fowler, or even Vivianne Miedema, should she be back in action, to play a starring role at the weekend.

For all that firepower, however, it is City's midfield that really shines. Yui Hasegawa is one of the strongest midfielders in the world right now and has been integral to City’s return to the top of the English game. Whether it is evading the press, relieving the defence of pressure, or tying together play, she is an all-rounder capable of deciding a game.

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