The dream is well and truly alive. Following a sensational 2-1 victory over Arsenal at St Mary’s earlier this month, Southampton Football Club has officially booked its place at Wembley for the FA Cup semi-final. In a twist of fate that has every Saints fan checking the history books, the club is set to face Manchester City on Saturday, 25 April 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 17:15.
Wembley Bound: Saints Secure Historic FA Cup Semi-Final Spot
A Nod to the Heroes of ’76
The timing could not be more poetic. This season marks the 50th anniversary of the legendary 1976 FA Cup win, where Bobby Stokes’ famous strike saw the Saints topple Manchester United. In a move that has sent the fanbase into a frenzy of nostalgia, the FA has granted the club special dispensation to wear their anniversary yellow and blue kit at Wembley—a direct replica of the one worn during that iconic victory half a century ago.
Match Details: What You Need to Know
If you are planning the trip to London or watching from home, here are the essential details for your diary:
| Event | Information |
|---|---|
| Opponent | Manchester City |
| Date | Saturday, 25 April 2026 |
| Kick-off | 17:15 (UK Time) |
| Venue | Wembley Stadium, London |
| TV Coverage | BBC One, BBC iPlayer, TNT Sports 1, and HBO Max |
Travel: Getting to the Arch
The trek to Wembley is part of the tradition. Here is how you can make the journey from the South Coast:
- Official Coach Travel: National Express and Big Green Coach are running dedicated services from Southampton City Centre, Eastleigh, and Winchester. Return fares start from approximately £40 for adults.
- Trains: Direct services from Southampton Central to London Waterloo run frequently. Fans are advised to use the Jubilee or Metropolitan lines from Waterloo/Westminster to reach Wembley Park.
- Parking: If you are driving, “Pink Parking” is the designated area for coach and pre-booked car arrivals directly outside the stadium.
Where to Watch in Southampton
If you do not have a ticket, the atmosphere in the city will be electric. Several local favourites are expected to be hubs for the Red and White army:
- The Scholars Arms: Known for its “match day buzz,” they will be showing the game across multiple big screens.
- Shenanigans: Southampton’s premier Irish sports bar will have the volume up and the crowd roaring.
- St Mary’s Fan Zone: Keep an eye on club announcements regarding a potential beam-back or local screening at the stadium itself.
Ticket Information
The club has confirmed that ticketing details will be released in phases, prioritising season ticket holders and those with high loyalty points. Given the “1976 factor,” demand is expected to be unprecedented. Supporters are urged to check the official SFC portal daily for their specific booking window.
As we prepare to paint Wembley yellow and blue once more, the question on everyone’s lips is the same: Can history truly repeat itself? One thing is for certain; the city of Southampton will be standing right behind them.
March on, you Saints!
