Our under-18s begin their FA Youth Cup campaign with a short trip to Hertingfordbury Park to take on Hertford Town on Tuesday, December 3. Kick-off is at 7pm (UK).
The team will be looking to bounce back from our 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace in the Premier League Cup last time out. Under the guidance of new head coach Adam Birchall, our young Gunners will aim to get their FA Youth Cup journey off to a strong start.
**The Opposition**
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Hertford Town's under-18s have enjoyed a sensational run in the FA Youth Cup already this season, making history by reaching the third round proper for the first time. Their journey has been nothing short of remarkable:
* **Preliminary Round:** Cheshunt 0-3 Hertford Town
* **First Round Qualifying:** Boreham Wood 1-3 Hertford Town
* **Second Round Qualifying:** Hertford Town 6-0 Colney Heath
* **Third Round Qualifying:** Hertford Town 3-0 Sudbury
* **First Round:** Hertford Town 3-2 Cambridge United
* **Second Round:** Hertford Town 4-3 Bristol Rovers (AET)
Having already defeated two EFL sides—Cambridge United and Bristol Rovers—Hertford Town will approach this match with confidence and belief in their ability to cause another upset especially as they’ll have the home crowd on their side.
The FA Youth Cup has long been a platform for young talent to shine. Our last triumph in the competition came in 2009, with a squad that featured none other than our former under-18s head coach, Jack Wilshere.
Since lifting the trophy in 2009, we’ve come close on two occasions, reaching the final in 2018 and 2023. However, we missed out on both occasions, falling to Chelsea and West Ham United, respectively.
**How to Follow**
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You can also stay up to date with live commentary on our [academy’s X page](https://x.com/arsenalacademy). A full match report will be available on [Arsenal.com](https://arsenal.com) shortly after the final whistle.
Post-match, don’t miss exclusive interviews with Adam Birchall and one of our young Gunners, along with highlights of all the action.
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