The FA Cup, a tournament steeped in history and tradition, has witnessed some truly unforgettable moments. Among these, the lightning-fast goals that have sent shockwaves through Wembley Stadium stand out. These strikes, often scored within the opening minutes, can dramatically alter the course of the final, injecting instant excitement and setting the stage for a captivating contest. In this article, we're diving into the top 10 fastest goals ever scored in FA Cup Finals, reliving the moments of brilliance and the players who etched their names into FA Cup folklore. Get ready to journey through a collection of iconic goals, each a testament to the speed, skill, and sheer determination that defines the beautiful game. These goals aren't just about speed; they represent pivotal moments, game-changers that can swing momentum and etch a player's name into FA Cup legend. From unexpected volleys to clinical finishes, each goal tells a unique story, a blend of anticipation, execution, and the electric atmosphere of the FA Cup Final. So, buckle up and prepare to witness the drama and intensity of the fastest goals in FA Cup Final history. We'll break down each goal, looking at the context, the player, and the lasting impact it had on the game. It's a celebration of speed, skill, and the unpredictable nature of the world's oldest football competition. These moments are more than just goals; they are snapshots of history, moments that fans remember for decades, and a testament to the enduring magic of the FA Cup.

1. Louis Saha (Everton vs. Chelsea, 2009) – 25 seconds

The fastest FA Cup Final goal of all time belongs to Louis Saha. In the 2009 final between Everton and Chelsea, Saha etched his name into the record books with a blistering strike just 25 seconds into the match. The goal sent shockwaves through Wembley and ignited the Everton fans into a frenzy of celebration. This lightning-fast opener showcased Saha's predatory instincts and his ability to capitalize on any defensive lapse. The move began with a long throw-in, flicked on into Saha's path, who unleashed a ferocious shot past Petr Cech. While Everton ultimately lost the final 2-1, Saha's record-breaking goal remains one of the most memorable moments in FA Cup history. It's a goal that perfectly encapsulates the excitement and unpredictability of the competition, a moment where anything can happen. It's also a reminder of Saha's clinical finishing and his knack for scoring important goals. This goal is more than just a statistic; it's a testament to the power of instant impact and the ability of a single moment to define a game. The sheer speed of the goal, combined with the magnitude of the occasion, makes it a truly iconic moment in FA Cup history. For Everton fans, it's a cherished memory, a moment of pure elation that will forever be associated with Louis Saha and the 2009 FA Cup Final. It stands as a reminder that in football, anything is possible, and that even the shortest of moments can create lasting legacies.

2. Roberto Di Matteo (Chelsea vs. Middlesbrough, 1997) – 43 seconds

Coming in at number two is Roberto Di Matteo's thunderous strike for Chelsea against Middlesbrough in the 1997 final. Di Matteo, known for his powerful shots from midfield, didn't disappoint, finding the net just 43 seconds after the kickoff. This early goal set the tone for Chelsea's victory and marked a significant moment in their FA Cup journey. The goal itself was a thing of beauty, a long-range effort that soared past the Middlesbrough goalkeeper and into the back of the net. The speed and precision of the strike left fans in awe and gave Chelsea the perfect start to the final. Di Matteo's goal wasn't just about speed; it was about technique, power, and the confidence to unleash a shot from distance on the biggest stage. This goal is a reminder of Di Matteo's impact as a player and his ability to deliver in crucial moments. For Chelsea fans, it's a cherished memory, a moment of brilliance that helped secure their FA Cup triumph. It's also a testament to the excitement and drama that the FA Cup Final can produce. Di Matteo's goal remains one of the most iconic moments in the competition's history, a symbol of skill, determination, and the magic of the FA Cup.

3. Alan Shearer (Newcastle United vs. Chelsea, 1999) – 52 seconds

Alan Shearer, the premier league's all-time leading goalscorer, makes the list with his goal for Newcastle United against Chelsea in the 1999 final. Although Newcastle lost the match, Shearer's goal, timed at 52 seconds, provided a glimmer of hope for the Magpies early on. Shearer, a master of poaching goals and a legend, showed his predatory instincts with this early strike. The goal itself was a result of Newcastle's pressure, with Shearer pouncing on a loose ball in the box and firing it past the keeper. While the result didn't go Newcastle's way, Shearer's goal remains a memorable moment for their fans, a brief spark of excitement in a game dominated by Chelsea. It's a testament to Shearer's unwavering commitment and his ability to find the net, even in the face of adversity. This goal also highlights the unpredictable nature of football, where even the best teams can be caught off guard. Shearer's goal serves as a reminder of his incredible talent and his lasting legacy as one of England's greatest strikers. It's a moment that Newcastle fans will always cherish, a symbol of Shearer's dedication and his unwavering desire to score goals.

4. Stuart McCall (Everton vs. Liverpool, 1989) – 58 seconds

The Merseyside derby is always a feisty affair, and the 1989 FA Cup Final between Everton and Liverpool was no exception. Stuart McCall etched his name into FA Cup folklore with a goal just 58 seconds into the match. This early goal added even more spice to an already highly anticipated contest. The goal itself was a result of a well-worked move, with McCall arriving late in the box to fire home a powerful shot. While the game ultimately ended in a 3-2 victory for Liverpool after extra time, McCall's goal remains a memorable moment for Everton fans. It's a symbol of their resilience and their ability to compete against their fierce rivals. This goal also highlights the passion and intensity of the Merseyside derby, where anything can happen. McCall's goal serves as a reminder of his contribution to Everton and his ability to deliver in crucial moments. It's a moment that Everton fans will always remember, a symbol of their fighting spirit and their unwavering support for their team.

5. Kevin Campbell (Everton vs. Manchester United, 1995) – 62 seconds

Another Everton player makes the list! Kevin Campbell scored just 62 seconds into the 1995 FA Cup Final against Manchester United, setting the stage for a famous Everton victory. This rapid goal stunned the Red Devils and gave Everton the belief they needed to win the trophy. The goal was a classic poacher's effort, with Campbell reacting quickly to a deflection and slotting the ball past Peter Schmeichel. This goal is one of the most iconic in Everton's history, a symbol of their FA Cup triumph and their ability to overcome the odds. It's a testament to Campbell's sharpness and his knack for being in the right place at the right time. This goal also highlights the importance of a fast start in a final, and how it can give a team the momentum they need to succeed. Campbell's goal serves as a reminder of his contribution to Everton and his place in the club's history. It's a moment that Everton fans will always cherish, a symbol of their FA Cup victory and their unwavering support for their team.

6. Les Ferdinand (Tottenham Hotspur vs. Leicester City, 1999) – 68 seconds

Les Ferdinand, a prolific striker throughout his career, scored a goal for Tottenham Hotspur against Leicester City in the 1999 League Cup Final after just 68 seconds. Although it's technically a League Cup goal and not an FA Cup goal, its speed and significance warrant a mention given its proximity to our list. This early strike set the tone for Spurs' victory and showcased Ferdinand's clinical finishing ability. The goal was a result of a well-timed run and a composed finish, demonstrating Ferdinand's skill and experience. While it may not be an FA Cup goal, it's a reminder of Ferdinand's talent and his ability to score important goals in big games. This goal also highlights the importance of a strong start in a final, and how it can give a team the confidence they need to succeed. Ferdinand's goal serves as a reminder of his contribution to Tottenham and his place in the club's history. It's a moment that Spurs fans will always appreciate, a symbol of their League Cup victory and their admiration for Ferdinand.

7. Geoff Hurst (West Ham United vs. 1860 Munich, 1965) – 75 seconds

Geoff Hurst, forever remembered for his hat-trick in the 1966 World Cup Final, also scored a very early goal (75 seconds) in a final in 1965. This goal came in the European Cup Winners Cup Final against 1860 Munich. While not an FA Cup final goal, its historical significance earns it a mention. West Ham won 2-0.

8. Nat Lofthouse (Bolton Wanderers vs. Manchester United, 1958) – 3 minutes

Though considerably slower than Saha's record, Nat Lofthouse's goal for Bolton Wanderers against Manchester United in the 1958 FA Cup Final, coming in at around 3 minutes, was still a significant moment. Lofthouse, a Bolton legend, was known for his strength and determination, and this goal was a testament to his qualities. Bolton won 2-0.

9. Brian Deane (Sheffield Wednesday vs. Manchester United, 1993) - 4 minutes

Brian Deane's header for Sheffield Wednesday versus Manchester United in the 1993 League Cup final came in at around 4 minutes. While technically a League Cup goal, its speed warrants a mention. Manchester United won 2-1.

10. Peter Doherty (Manchester City vs. Portsmouth, 1939) - 5 minutes

Peter Doherty found the net for Manchester City after five minutes against Portsmouth in the 1939 FA Cup final. Doherty was a key player for City and his early goal set the tone for their victory. Manchester City won 2-0.

These early strikes demonstrate the drama and excitement that the FA Cup Final can deliver. From Louis Saha's record-breaking goal to the other memorable moments on this list, these goals have etched themselves into FA Cup folklore and continue to be celebrated by fans around the world. The FA Cup is a tournament full of surprises, and these lightning-fast goals are just one example of the magic that it can produce. So, the next time you're watching an FA Cup Final, keep an eye out for an early goal – you never know, you might just witness history in the making!