Women’s FA Cup: Brighton stun Arsenal to reach semis as Liverpool beat Charlton

Brighton pulled off the shock of the quarter-final weekend, sweeping European champions Arsenal aside 2-0 at Meadow Park and ending the 14-time winners’ hopes of a first trophy since 201 the Seagulls’ first semi-final since 2019.

Liverpool, meanwhile, needed 115 minutes to break WSL 2 visitors Charlton, substitute Zara Shaw – on her return after a year out – sm home the only goal of the game five minutes from the end of extra-time.

Arsenal, still reeling from Wednesday’s Champions League exit at Chelsea, never recovered from Fran Kirby’s instant impact. Three minutes after the restart Kirby slipped in Madison Haley, who finished coolly past Daphne van Domselaar. Kirby then swung a corner for Caitlin Hayes to head home and settle matters on 63 minutes.

Brighton head coach Renee Slegers made six changes following the midweek exertions, and the reshuffle showed as the Gunners failed to carry over any momentum. Brighton, by contrast, were clinical and reach their fourth semi-final in club history.

Liverpool’s win sets up a second consecutive semi-final appearance, while Charlton, pushing for promotion this season, leave the Valley proud of a defensive stand that lasted nearly two hours.

The draw takes place Monday around 4 30pm, after the final quarter-final between Birmingham City and Manchester City kicks off at 5pm following Chelsea Spurs at 1 30pm. Matches weekend May 9 10, final Sunday May 31.