Republic of Ireland FAI Cup

Republic of Ireland FAI Cup

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FAI Cup Wikipedia

Wikipedia - FAI Cup

The Football Association of Ireland Senior Challenge Cup (FAI Cup), known as the Sports Direct FAI Cup for sponsorship reasons, is a knock-out association football competition contested annually by teams from the Republic of Ireland (as well as Derry City from Northern Ireland). Organised by the FAI (Football Association of Ireland), the competition is currently sponsored by Sports Direct. It was known as the Free State Cup from 1923 to 1936. Shamrock Rovers hold the record of most wins with 25.

The current holders are St Patrick's Athletic, who won their 5th title in November 2023.

History

Shelbourne, Bohemians and Derry City are the only clubs to have won both the (Northern) Irish Cup and the FAI Cup, although Shelbourne and Bohemians only won it before partition, while Derry City remained in the Northern Irish league system until 1973, entering the League of Ireland in 1985. Alton United based in Belfast and Derry City are the only sides from outside the Republic of Ireland to win the competition.

Athlone Town in 1924, Dundalk in 1958, Shamrock Rovers in 1968 and Sligo Rovers in 2010 are the only sides ever to win the Cup without conceding a goal.

Since 2003, Irish domestic football has moved from the traditional European August–May season to a summer set-up, as favoured in Scandinavia. As an "interim" season was played in the second half of 2002, two FAI Cup Finals took place that year – Dundalk winning in April, and Derry City lifting the trophy in November.

Following the 1985 expansion of the League of Ireland to two Divisions, Bray Wanderers were the first First Division team to win the Cup, defeating non-League St. Francis in 1990. Bray were also the first team to win the Cup in a season that saw them relegated, in 1999. Dundalk were relegated in 2002 while winning the first of that year's trophies.

After two defeats in Cup Finals in the 1970s, Drogheda United finally reached the summit in 2005. Goals from Gavin Whelan (whose father, Paul, captained Bohemians to the 1992 cup and whose grandfather, Ronnie, won two cups with St. Patrick's Athletic) and captain Declan O'Brien helped "the Drogs" to a 2–0 win over Cork City.

The last soccer game to be played at the old Lansdowne Road was the 2006 final, contested between St. Patrick's Athletic and Derry City, who ran out eventual 4–3 winners after extra-time. The original FAI Cup was also retired after the game with a brand new version of the trophy to be used in the following seasons.

The largest ever win in the competition occurred on 29 November 2020 when Dundalk beat Athlone Town 11–0 at the semi-final stage.

The largest ever attendance at an FAI Cup game was 43,881 people, as St Patrick's Athletic defeated Bohemians 3–1 in the 2023 FAI Cup Final at the Aviva Stadium.

The Republic of Ireland FAI Cup is an annual soccer tournament held in Ireland. It is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated events in Irish football, showcasing the best teams from across the country.

The tournament, organized by the Football Association of Ireland (FAI), features teams from various divisions, including the League of Ireland Premier Division, First Division, and non-league clubs. It provides an opportunity for both professional and amateur teams to compete against each other, creating an exciting and unpredictable atmosphere.

The FAI Cup follows a knockout format, with teams battling it out in a series of matches to progress to the next round. The competition begins with preliminary rounds, where lower-ranked teams face off against each other to secure a place in the main draw. As the tournament progresses, the intensity and stakes increase, leading to thrilling encounters and memorable moments.

The final match of the FAI Cup is the pinnacle of the tournament, attracting a large crowd of passionate fans from all over Ireland. It is typically held at the iconic Aviva Stadium in Dublin, adding to the grandeur and significance of the occasion. The atmosphere is electric, with supporters chanting, singing, and waving their team's colors, creating an unforgettable experience for players and spectators alike.

The winner of the FAI Cup not only earns the prestigious title but also secures a place in European competitions, such as the UEFA Europa League. This provides an opportunity for Irish teams to showcase their talent on an international stage, further elevating the significance of the tournament.

The Republic of Ireland FAI Cup is not only a celebration of soccer but also a reflection of the rich sporting culture and heritage of Ireland. It brings communities together, fosters a sense of pride, and showcases the immense talent and passion for the beautiful game in the country.