The stage is set for the first round proper of the world's oldest football competition, as the FA Cup draw unfolded with its trademark drama and anticipation. Forty-eight clubs from Leagues One and Two learned their fate alongside the non-league heroes who battled through qualifying rounds.
The Magic Begins Here
Football's most romantic competition springs to life as clubs from across the English football pyramid discover their path to potential glory. The first round represents where dreams truly begin, where part-time plumbers and builders could line up against professional footballers.
Key Fixtures to Watch
Among the standout ties, several non-league clubs face challenging away days against Football League opposition. The beauty of this stage lies in the potential for giant-killing, where minnows can topple established professional sides and write their names into FA Cup folklore.
Road to Wembley Starts Now
Every club entering at this stage knows that six victories separate them from a life-changing trip to Wembley Stadium. The financial rewards and national exposure make this competition crucial for smaller clubs' survival and growth.
When to mark your calendars: All first round proper matches are scheduled to take place over the weekend of November 2-5, 2024, with broadcast selections adding to the excitement for chosen clubs.
The FA Cup continues to capture the imagination of football fans nationwide, proving that in this competition, anything remains possible and every team starts with equal hope of creating history.
