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Watch the 2025 FA Cup Semi-Final: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa Live
The eagerly anticipated FA Cup semi-final between Crystal Palace and Aston Villa takes place on Saturday 26 April 2025, kicking off at 17:15 UK time. Football fans in the UK can catch this thrilling encounter live on Astro Football HD and Astro Grandstand HD, with exclusive coverage from the world feed commentators. Those seeking highlights and extended analysis can turn to the BBC, which offers comprehensive coverage across its platforms including BBC One, BBC iPlayer, BBC Match of the Day, and BBC Football Focus.
This match-up at Wembley Stadium is pivotal, with both sides desperate to book their place in the FA Cup final. Aston Villa, managed by Unai Emery, chase their eighth FA Cup title and a return to the final for the first time in a decade. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace, under the guidance of Oliver Glasner, aim to lift the trophy for the first time in their history, adding a historic dimension to this encounter.
Astro Football and Astro Grandstand HD Coverage
Astro's live broadcasts on Football HD and Grandstand HD will feature presenter Michelle Lee, who guides viewers through the pre-match build-up and in-play action. Both channels use the world feed commentators for the main commentary and co-commentary roles, featuring the illustrious voices of Martin Tyler and Stewart Robson. Tyler, renowned worldwide for his iconic and emotive commentary, is often regarded as the voice of English football. Stewart Robson, a former Arsenal midfielder and respected pundit, provides expert tactical insight throughout the match. Joining them on Astro are pundits Gary Stevens and Lee Sharpe, both former England internationals with extensive Premier League experience, offering in-depth analysis and player assessment.
BBC’s Extensive Coverage and Expert Panel
BBC’s coverage is multi-platform—offering live commentary, highlights, and expert analysis. The main commentary team on BBC channels, including BBC One and BBC Match of the Day, consists of Steve Wilson as the commentator and former England striker Alan Shearer as co-commentator. Both bring decades of Premier League and international experience, with Shearer being the Premier League’s all-time leading scorer. Kelly Somers, a seasoned football reporter known for her astute match reportage, will provide on-ground insights.
The BBC Football Focus preview show features Dion Dublin, a veteran striker with a vast career behind him, while the BBC iPlayer and online platforms offer extended punditry from former Premier League stars Glenn Murray, Micah Richards, and Wayne Rooney. Rooney, one of England’s most celebrated forwards, lends his sharp football intellect to the panel, alongside Richards, a former defender for Manchester City and England, and Murray, a proven goal-scorer. The BBC Radio 5 Live coverage also provides in-depth commentary with presenter Mark Chapman, commentator John Murray, and pundit Dion Dublin, ensuring radio listeners are fully engaged.
International and Digital Coverage
For international audiences, the match is available on various channels such as ESPN+ in the USA, featuring commentators Jon Champion and Jim Beglin, with pundits Kieran Gibbs and Shaka Hislop. The world feed commentary by Martin Tyler and Stewart Robson is also broadcast globally, making this a truly international football event.
Fans can also follow live updates and commentary on the official Crystal Palace website, ESPN, and Goal.com, which provide live text commentary, team news, and post-match analysis. For those in the Caribbean or Asia, apps like Bluu and Optus Sport are streaming the fixture with world feed commentary.
Background on Key Commentators and Pundits
Martin Tyler has been the voice of English football for decades, famous for his memorable calls in Premier League and FA Cup matches, making him a preferred choice for world feed commentary. His co-commentator, Stewart Robson, brings a tactical and technical perspective, having played for Arsenal and West Ham.
Gary Stevens, a former England international defender known for his time at Tottenham and Everton, and Lee Sharpe, the ex-Manchester United winger, contribute expert insight that appeals to fans who appreciate detailed tactical analysis.
Gary Lineker, anchoring BBC’s high-profile coverage, is one of the most respected football presenters in the UK with a stellar playing career and decades of broadcasting excellence. The BBC’s pundits such as Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney offer a powerful blend of experience and passion, enhancing viewers’ understanding of the game's nuances.
Match Importance and Viewing Times
The semi-final holds high stakes: Crystal Palace look to create history by reaching their first FA Cup final, while Aston Villa aim to end a decade-long wait and claim the famous trophy once more. The match kicks off at 17:15 BST (British Summer Time) from Wembley, and viewers in the UK have multiple ways to watch and listen through TV, radio, and online platforms.
