Both the semifinals and final of the competition were played at Wembley Stadium for the last time before reconstruction work began.
Despite this being at the request of the Football Association (FA), who believed the move would boost England's chances of winning the bid to host the 2006 FIFA World Cup, they received criticism from journalists and television pundits.
‡ - Oxford City's replay with Wycombe Wanderers was abandoned after extra time due to a fire within the stadium.
[5] ^† = Darlington advanced as lucky losers This round marked the first time First Division and Premier League (top-flight) teams played.
Aston Villa booked their first FA Cup final appearance since 1957 by beating Bolton Wanderers on penalties after a goalless draw, while Chelsea reached their second final in four years with a narrow 2–1 win over Newcastle United (who had been finalists in the previous two seasons).