The Emirates FA Cup is back, and the 2026 final is shaping up to be a classic. As the 145th season of England's premier knockout competition reaches its climax, two of the Premier League's heavyweights—Chelsea FC and Manchester City FC—are set to battle it out at the iconic Wembley Stadium for the coveted trophy.
Whether you're a die-hard supporter or a neutral fan looking for top-tier soccer action, here's everything you need to know to catch every moment of this historic match live online.
When and Where to Watch
The FA Cup Final kicks off on Saturday, May 16, at 10 a.m. ET / 7 a.m. PT (3 p.m. BST) from Wembley Stadium in London. In the U.S., the match will air live on ESPN2 and stream via ESPN Unlimited. For the best viewing experience, many fans are turning to DirecTV, which offers seamless access to the broadcast.
No Cable? No Problem
Even if you've cut the cord, you can still enjoy all the drama and excitement. Several streaming platforms have you covered. Here are the top options:
DirecTV Stream (Choice Package)
Perfect for sports fans who want more than just the final. At $84.99/month for the first 24 months (then $94.99/month), you get over 90 channels, including ESPN2 for the big match. It's a solid choice for those looking to keep up with live sports throughout the year.
ESPN Unlimited
If you're all about soccer—and sports in general—this is your go-to. For $29.99/month, you unlock the full ESPN suite (ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, and more), plus access to leagues like the NBA, UFC, F1, MLB, NHL, and La Liga. The FA Cup Final is included, making it a great value for multi-sport fans.
Sling TV (Orange Package)
Budget-conscious viewers will appreciate Sling Orange at just $45.99/month, which includes ESPN2. Want to expand your soccer coverage? Add the Sports Extra package for an extra $11/month. Just remember that pricing and channel availability can vary, so check your local listings.
This year's final promises to be a gripping showdown between two of England's finest. Don't miss a second of the action—gear up in your favorite team's colors and get ready for a memorable day at Wembley.