The draw for the Emirates FA Cup first qualifying round has been confirmed, featuring 112 ties scheduled for Saturday, September 5, 2026.
Why it matters: The FA Cup is one of the oldest and most prestigious football tournaments in the world. This first qualifying round marks a key stage for clubs aiming to progress in the competition.
The first qualifying round is the first stage where teams from Step 3 and Step 4 enter the tournament.
Winners of the first qualifying round will receive £2,250, providing financial incentives for clubs.
The preliminary round saw several upsets, setting the stage for exciting matchups in the upcoming ties.
Driving the news: The draw was officially announced on August 24, 2026, at Wembley Stadium, generating excitement among fans and clubs alike.
Among the notable fixtures, Guiseley AFC will travel to Stockton Town for their first FA Cup tie of the season.
Other matches include South Liverpool facing Prestwich Heys, both of which are Premier Division clubs.
Replays from the preliminary round are set to take place on August 25, 2026, to finalize the list of participating teams.
State of play: The first qualifying round includes clubs from various leagues, including the Isthmian League and Southern League.
Teams from the Southern League Premier Division Central and South enter at this stage, adding to the competitive mix.
The first qualifying round will feature fixtures involving clubs that advanced from the preliminary rounds, including some surprising results.
Trafford's victory over Runcorn Linnets (3-2) is among the standout performances from the preliminary round.
The big picture: The Emirates FA Cup continues to be a platform for lower-league clubs to showcase their talent and compete against higher-ranked teams.
Clubs like AFC Greenwich Borough made headlines by defeating Cray Valley Paper Mills 4-2 in the preliminary round.
This year's competition promises a mix of expected outcomes and potential surprises as teams vie for advancement.
The financial rewards of progressing through the rounds help support clubs with limited resources.
What they're saying: Reactions from clubs and fans highlight the anticipation surrounding the upcoming ties.
"Every team dreams of making a deep run in the FA Cup," said a spokesperson from Guiseley AFC.
Fans expressed excitement on social media, sharing predictions and hopes for their teams' performances.
Club officials emphasized the importance of the prize money in sustaining operations and supporting player development.
By the numbers: Key statistics from the first qualifying round draw provide insights into the competition.
A total of 112 ties will be played, with matches scheduled primarily for a 3pm kickoff on September 5, 2026.
Winners of the first qualifying round will earn £2,250, whereas losing teams will still receive £750.
There are 20 replays scheduled for August 25, 2026, to finalize the participating teams.
What's next: The first qualifying round is just the beginning of a long and thrilling FA Cup campaign.
After the first qualifying round, successful teams will move on to the second qualifying round, scheduled for later in the year.
Clubs will prepare intensively for their matches, aiming to secure victories and advance in the tournament.
Fans can expect updates on ticket sales and match details through club websites and social media channels as the date approaches.