The History and Significance of the FA Cup in English Football

The FA Cup, established in 1871, is the oldest football competition in the world. It is a knockout tournament with no seeds, allowing any team to potentially win. The competition includes clubs from various levels of English football, with a complex qualifying structure. Notable moments include Tottenham Hotspur's 1901 victory as a non-league team and the disorderly 1923 Wembley final. The FA Cup is known for its potential for upsets, with lower division teams often defeating top clubs. Historic upsets include Sunderland's 1973 win over Leeds United. The competition has evolved over time, with changes in replay rules and eligibility criteria.

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