LONDON — The FA Cup semi-final showdown between Crystal Palace and Aston Villa is set to light up Wembley Stadium, and fans are itching to know how to catch every second of the action. This isn’t just another match; it’s a shot at glory for two clubs hungry to etch their names in football history. Palace, still chasing that elusive first FA Cup, face off against Villa, seven-time winners desperate for a major trophy since their 1996 League Cup triumph. Here’s the lowdown on when it kicks off, where it’s airing, and how you can watch it unfold.
The clash is slated for Saturday, April 26, 2025, with the whistle blowing at 5:15 p.m. local time. Wembley’s iconic arch will frame a game that could go to extra time or penalties if neither side cracks the deadlock in 90 minutes. Palace, under Oliver Glasner’s sharp-eyed management, have been a thorn in Villa’s side, unbeating them in three meetings this season, including a 4-1 league thrashing and a Carabao Cup knockout. Villa, led by Unai Emery, are no slouches, though, with a deep squad and a recent Champions League quarter-final run to flex their credentials.
For UK viewers, the match is free to air on BBC One, with coverage kicking off at 4:45 p.m. Expect Gary Lineker to anchor the broadcast, joined by Palace’s Glenn Murray, ex-Villa man Micah Richards, and England legend Wayne Rooney. If you’re glued to your phone or laptop, BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website will stream it live, no fuss, no paywall—just a valid TV licence required. Can’t watch live? BBC iPlayer’s catch-up service has you covered on smart TVs, tablets, or gaming consoles. For radio fans, BBC Radio 5 Live will carry every tackle and goal with live commentary.
Outside the UK? Crystal Palace’s official site points international fans to local broadcasters, though specifics depend on your region. In India, for instance, Sony Sports Network will televise the match, with streaming on SonyLiv, starting at 9:45 p.m. IST. Stateside, ESPN+ holds the streaming rights, but don’t expect it on traditional TV—it’s digital-only for U.S. viewers. Wherever you are, check local listings or use a VPN to tap into your home country’s stream, but make sure it’s legit per your broadcaster’s rules.
Team news adds spice to the buildup. Palace are sweating on injuries to midfield rock Cheick Doucouré and defender Chadi Riad, both sidelined with knee issues since January. Ben Chilwell’s a maybe, battling an illness, but Chris Richards is back after a suspension. Villa, meanwhile, are in rude health, with Emery likely to shuffle his deck—Ollie Watkins up top, Marcus Rashford on the wing, and Emi Martínez in goal despite recent wobbles.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. The winner books a date in the FA Cup final on May 17, 2025, against either Nottingham Forest or Manchester City, who square off in the other semi-final on April 27. Palace have reached this stage six times, alternating between heartbreak and finals, while Villa’s last Wembley win was a 2015 FA Cup semi-final against Liverpool. Both sides know this is more than a game—it’s a chance to make history.
Tickets? If you’re not among the 33,000-plus fans each club’s allocated, you’re likely out of luck unless you’re splashing out on corporate hospitality. Palace’s official app and Villa’s website are pushing team news, live blogs, and post-match reactions for those watching from afar. Palace TV+ offers audio commentary for UK fans who can’t tune into visuals, while Villa’s social channels will dish out behind-the-scenes clips.
So, mark your calendars: April 26, 5:15 p.m., BBC One or BBC iPlayer for UK fans, ESPN+ for Americans, Sony for India. Wherever you’re watching, expect a scrap. Palace and Villa are bringing everything to Wembley, and only one will walk away with a shot at the cup.