Brighton stun Arsenal to reach Women’s FA Cup semi-finals as Liverpool beat Charlton in extra-time
Record 14-time winners Arsenal, who have not lifted the FA Cup since 2016, suffer more frustration in the competition as Liverpool strike late in extra-time to beat Women's Super League 2 side Charlton thanks to a goal from Zara Shaw on her return from a long-term injury layoff
Sunday 5 April 2026 17:26, UK
Brighton pulled off a shock by dumping European champions Arsenal out of the Women's FA Cup as the Seagulls claimed a 2-0 win at Meadow Park.
Moments after Gunners forward Stina Blackstenius had a goal disallowed for a foul in the build-up, Madison Haley latched on to Fran Kirby's pass and fired past Daphne van Domselaar three minutes into the second half.
Kirby was again the provider in the 63rd minute as her corner was met by Caitlin Hayes, who headed over Van Domselaar and in to settle this quarter-final contest in favour of the underdogs.
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Arsenal failed to carry over the momentum of beating rivals Chelsea in the Champions League on Wednesday to reach the semi-finals as they suffered more FA Cup disappointment.
The 14-time winners, who have not lifted the trophy since 2016, failed to keep up with Brighton after Arsenal head coach Renee Slegers made six changes following their midweek exertions.
Brighton were pushed hard by Arsenal but managed to see the game out to reach the FA Cup semi-finals for the fourth time in their history and keep their hopes alive of winning the club's first major trophy.
"It is so special, it is something that we spoke about," Kirby, 32, told TNT Sports.
"We knew we could come here and get a result, but to do it against a team like Arsenal, who have quality all over, is really special. I'm so proud of all of the team."
Liverpool beat Charlton in extra-time
Liverpool struck late in extra-time to beat Women's Super League 2 side Charlton 1-0 at the Valley to reach the Women's FA Cup semi-finals for the second season running.
Zara Shaw, on her return from injury after a year out, scored the winning goal with five minutes left to play after a scramble in the box which saw Jenna Clark hit the frame of the goal twice.
Charlton, who are in the hunt for WSL promotion this season, showed their credentials with an impressive defensive stand, holding on for nearly two hours against Gareth Taylor's side.
When is the Women's FA Cup semi-final draw?
The Women's FA Cup semi-final draw takes place on Monday at around 4.30pm ahead of the final quarter-final tie between Birmingham City and Manchester City.
Their game kicks off at 5pm after Chelsea play Spurs at 1.30pm earlier on Monday.
Who is left in the Women's FA Cup?
- Liverpool
- Chelsea or Tottenham
- Brighton
- Birmingham or Man City
When are the Women's FA Cup semi-final ties?
Matches will be played on the weekend of May 9/10 ahead of the final on Sunday May 31.
