On March 16, 1872, the pioneering spirit of the first English FA Cup Final took place in London, heralding the beginning of football history. This occasion established the foundation for contemporary football and signified the start of the world’s oldest national football competition, inspiring generations of football enthusiasts.

Although the Football Association (FA) released the Laws of the Game in 1863, it wasn’t until 1871 that they consented to forming a competition where all affiliated clubs could participate. Alcock’s proposal for a football league, inspired by the knock-out tournaments in cricket, was a game-changer. The competition’s democratic nature allowed teams from all game levels to compete, giving even smaller clubs the chance to win. The competition’s first edition included 12 teams, with Wanderers and Royal Engineers fighting for the championship trophy, demonstrating the inclusivity of the FA Cup.

The Kennington Oval, primarily recognized for cricket, hosted the First FA Cup Final. About 2000 spectators watched an electrifying matchup between two teams with starkly different histories and approaches to the game. Royal Engineers, a squad renowned for their deft passing and methodical play, faced off against The Wanderers, a team of former public school athletes. The contrast in their styles and backgrounds added an extra layer of excitement to the game. Morton Betts gave the Wanderers a historic 1-0 victory by scoring the game’s lone goal.

Wanderers were awarded the 18-inch silver trophy, a significant symbol of their victory. R.W.S. Vidal assisted M.P. Betts in scoring the game-winning goal, although Betts played under the alias A.H. Chequer. Despite being the favorites, the Engineers struggled, especially after Lieutenant Gresswell fractured his collarbone. The Wanderers’ win guaranteed them a spot in the 1873 championship game.

The Wanderers’ win in the first FA Cup Final was just the beginning of a long and storied history for the competition. For the past 150 years, the FA Cup has been home to some of the most iconic moments in sports. English amateur and professional clubs continue to take pride in the oldest cup competition. However, the first game played in London on that fateful day in 1872 permanently changed the course of football history. The Wanderers’ victory also set the stage for an exciting 1873 championship game, where they would defend their title against a new set of challengers.