Do You Know All the Women's FA Cup Champions?

The Women's FA Cup fourth round takes place this weekend, celebrating over five decades of women's football excellence in the UK. With a storied history since its inception in the 1970-71 season, there have been 55 finals, and fans are challenged to name all the winners. This quiz not only tests your knowledge of the Women's FA Cup but also highlights the growth and achievements of women's football in the UK.

Last updated: 30 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

This weekend marks the fourth round of the Women's FA Cup, an important fixture in the football calendar. As teams across the country compete for a place in the next round, the excitement is palpable. The Women's FA Cup has evolved significantly since its first final in 1971, showcasing the skill and determination of female athletes in the UK.

Key takeaways

The Women's FA Cup was established in the 1970-71 season.
There have been 55 finals to date, with a rich history of winners.
This weekend's matches are crucial for teams aiming to progress in the tournament.

Timeline: how we got here

The Women's FA Cup has a rich history that reflects the growth of women's football in the UK. Here’s a brief overview of significant milestones:

1970-71: The first Women's FA Cup final takes place, with Southampton winning against the Scottish team, St. Helens.
1993: The competition is officially recognised by the FA, marking a turning point in its history.
2015: Chelsea wins their first Women's FA Cup, illustrating the rise of club football in the women's game.
2020: The final is played at Wembley Stadium for the first time, showcasing the growing popularity of women's football.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

This weekend's fourth round matches will feature several exciting matchups, with teams looking to make a mark in the tournament. As clubs prepare, fans are eager to see how the competition unfolds and which teams will emerge as frontrunners.

What was already established

The Women's FA Cup has a long-standing tradition, with numerous clubs having established themselves as dominant forces over the years. Teams like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City have been particularly successful, contributing to a competitive and thrilling tournament atmosphere.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The Women's FA Cup has a significant impact on local communities, with matches drawing fans and boosting local economies. Families are encouraged to attend games, creating a vibrant atmosphere that supports women's sports.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses often benefit from increased foot traffic during the Women's FA Cup, as fans flock to matches. Additionally, the tournament creates job opportunities within clubs and associated organisations, highlighting the economic importance of women's football.

Policy and regulation

The FA continues to promote women's football through initiatives aimed at increasing participation and visibility. As the competition gains traction, there is a push for better funding and support for women's sports at all levels.

Numbers that matter

55: The total number of Women's FA Cup finals held since 1970.
14: The number of clubs that have won the Women's FA Cup trophy.
1: The year 2020 marked the first time the final was held at Wembley Stadium.

Definitions and jargon buster

FA: Football Association, the governing body for football in England.
WSL: Women's Super League, the top tier of women's football in England.
Final: The last match in a knockout competition, determining the champion.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the tournament progresses, fans should pay attention to upcoming fixtures and results. The excitement builds as teams advance to the knockout stages, and the competition becomes increasingly intense.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Beyond the Women's FA Cup, the growth of women's football will continue to be a focal point, with clubs focusing on development and engagement strategies to attract more fans and participants.

Signals to watch

Upcoming fixtures and results from the Women's FA Cup.
Engagement levels at matches, including attendance and social media interactions.
Funding announcements from the FA regarding women's football initiatives.

Practical guidance

Do

Attend local Women's FA Cup matches to support your team.
Engage with women’s football content online to stay informed.
Encourage young girls to participate in local football clubs.

Don’t

Don’t underestimate the impact of women's football on local communities.
Don’t ignore the growing presence and importance of female athletes in sports.
Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women's football.

Checklist

Find out when your local team's next Women's FA Cup match is scheduled.
Check the results of previous rounds to understand the tournament landscape.
Follow relevant social media accounts for updates and news.
Share information about the Women's FA Cup with friends and family.
Consider volunteering or supporting local women's football initiatives.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the Women's FA Cup showcases the talent and dedication of female athletes, it is essential to remain aware of the ongoing challenges faced by women's sports, including funding disparities and visibility issues. The competition's growth depends on addressing these challenges and ensuring that women's football receives the recognition it deserves.

Bottom line

The Women's FA Cup is not just a tournament; it represents years of progress and the future of women's football in the UK. As fans engage with the tournament and celebrate the achievements of female athletes, it is crucial to recognise the importance of continued support for women's sports.

FAQs

How many Women's FA Cup finals have there been?

There have been 55 Women's FA Cup finals since the competition began in the 1970-71 season.

Which teams have historically been the most successful in the Women's FA Cup?

Teams like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City have historically been the most successful in the Women's FA Cup, with multiple titles to their name.

What impact does the Women's FA Cup have on local communities?

The Women's FA Cup positively impacts local communities by boosting local economies, encouraging attendance at matches, and inspiring young girls to participate in sports.