The FA Cup is a knockout competition, with qualifying rounds before the competition proper. Check which stage you are following: the rules for a drawn qualifying match differ from those for a proper-round tie.
Qualifying is not the same as the first round proper
The 2026/27 calendar has six qualifying rounds, from extra preliminary to fourth qualifying, then eight proper rounds ending in the final. Third round qualifying and third round proper are different stages, not two names for the same round.
Does an FA Cup draw mean a replay?
Initial qualifying tie: a draw through fourth round qualifying requires a replay.
Qualifying replay: if level at full time, play thirty minutes of extra time, then penalties if still level.
First round proper onward: a drawn match goes to extra time and, if needed, penalties that day.
Key round dates for 2026/27
The FA's calendar lists third qualifying for 3 October 2026 and fourth qualifying for 17 October. The first proper round is dated 7 November, the second 5 December and the third 9 January 2027. The final is scheduled for 22 May 2027.
These are round dates, not a confirmed kick-off for every tie. The full calendar linked below includes the other rounds; check the individual fixture before making plans.
Plan for the actual fixture, not just the round date
The official fixture page warns that dates and times can change with television selections and replays. Confirm your teams, competition stage and latest kick-off, then convert that specific time for Ethiopia using our football match-time guide.
Extra time is two fifteen-minute periods; it is not the referee's allowance for time lost during normal play. Allow a longer viewing window when the tie may need a winner that evening. A fixture listing does not confirm an included channel or an Ethiopian viewing package.
Quick answers
Are FA Cup replays completely abolished?
No. Drawn first matches through fourth round qualifying still require replays. Proper-round matches are decided with extra time and penalties if needed.
How long is extra time?
Thirty minutes, split into two fifteen-minute periods. If the score remains level, penalties decide the winner.
Is a round date the exact time my team will play?
No. Confirm the individual tie on The FA's fixture page; television selections and replays can change scheduling.
