It’s crunch time at Wembley as Crystal Palace vs. Aston Villa go head-to-head in the first FA Cup semi-final of the season.
Palace are hungry for their first ever major trophy. Manager Oliver Glasner has breathed new life into the team, and they’ll believe now is as good a time as any to write their names into history.
This one’s shaping up to be more than just a battle of tactics — it’s a test of nerve. Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta has been in red-hot form up top, while Villa’s Ezri Konsa has quietly become one of the most reliable defenders in the league.
Villa fans, on the other hand, will be hoping Unai Emery can dust off the disappointment of a Champions League exit and bring silverware back to Villa Park for the first time since 1996. They’ve looked sharp domestically, and with Marcus Rashford finding his feet, there’s hope he can make the difference on the big stage.
The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times and the latest lineup news.
Crystal Palace vs. Aston Villa live stream, TV channel
Here’s how to watch this FA Cup semifinal match in the U.S.:
TV channel: —
Live stream: ESPN+, ESPN App
This game is not available for live TV broadcast in the United States. Streaming options are available on ESPN App and ESPN+.
You can get an ESPN+ subscription for $11.99 per month or purchase an annual plan for $119.99 per year, a $24 savings. Stream your favorite teams live and enjoy more sports anywhere with an ESPN+ subscription.
What time does Crystal Palace vs. Aston Villa kick off?
This FA Cup semifinal takes place at the Wembley Stadium in London, England and kicks off on Saturday, April 26 at 5:15 p.m. local time.
Here’s how that time translates across the U.S.:
| Date | Kickoff time | |
| Eastern Time | Sat, Apr. 26 | 12:15 p.m. |
| Central Time | Sat, Apr. 26 | 11:15 a.m. |
| Mountain Time | Sat, Apr. 26 | 10:15 a.m. |
| Pacific Time | Sat, Apr. 26 | 9:15 a.m. |
Crystal Palace vs. Aston Villa lineups, team news
The Eagles are still without key midfield anchor Cheick Doucouré and centre-back Chadi Riad, both sidelined since January due to knee injuries. There’s a glimmer of hope in the form of Ben Chilwell, who’s been dealing with an unspecified illness but could be available for selection after missing out on the previous matchday squad.
Chris Richards, who was suspended for their last outing, is now eligible again and is expected to slot straight back into the starting XI as Palace look to book their first-ever FA Cup title shot.
Crystal Palace predicted XI (3-4-2-1, right to left): Henderson (GK) — Richards, Lacroix, Guehi — Munoz, Lerma, Hughes, Mitchell — Eze, Sarr — Mateta.
Injured: Doucoure, Riad, Chilwell (doubtful)
Suspended: None.
For the Villans, Unai Emery is expected to make a few key changes following their late heartbreak against Manchester City. Centre-back Pau Torres may be dropped after a shaky showing midweek, with Tyrone Mings in line to take his place. In midfield, John McGinn could return at the expense of Amadou Onana, bringing energy and big-game experience.
Emery is also likely to shuffle his attack, with Ollie Watkins set to start up front, pushing Marcus Rashford to the left and Morgan Rogers operating in a free role. Emi Martínez, despite recent struggles, is expected to retain his place in goal as Villa chase their first FA Cup final appearance in a decade.
Aston Villa predicted XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Martinez (GK) — Cash, Konsa, Mings, Digne — Kamara, Tielemans — Rogers, McGinn, Rashford — Watkins.
Injured: None
Suspended: None
FA Cup schedule this week
All times ET
Saturday, April 26
- Crystal Palace vs. Aston Villa (12:15 p.m.)
Sunday, April 27
- Nottingham Forest vs. Manchester City (11:30 a.m.)
