FA Youth Cup: Crewe Alexandra (H) Preview

Match Info

Fixture: Watford v Crewe Alexandra
Competition: FA Youth Cup
Venue: Orbital Fasteners Stadium, Kings Langley
Time: Thursday January 16, 7pm
Strip: Yellow home kit

How We Got Here

The Young Hornets overcame a tough challenge on a rainy night in early December to secure their place in the fourth round.

Amin Nabizada gave Watford a first-half lead over Oxford United, before the U's drew level on the hour mark with Jack Lee converting a penalty.

However, the Golden Boys retook the lead just four minutes later through Kash Odiase, and held on for a 2-1 victory.

Crewe Alexandra required penalties to reach this stage, knocking out Luton Town at Kenilworth Road with a 4-3 spot-kick win after the game ended 2-2 following extra-time. 

To be eligible for the FA Youth Cup, teams must play in a Youth League, or equivalent competition, and be fully integrated within the main structure of the senior club.

Players selected must be under 18 at midnight on August 31 in the current season.

George Best, Paul Gascoigne, David Beckham, Michael Owen, Mason Mount, Reece James and Cole Palmer have all played in FA Youth Cup-winning sides.

Pre-Match Chat

“Preparation has looked very good. The boys are in a really good place physically and mentally and they are ready to go. Training of late has been really good, so excited is the main feeling.

“It will be tough; Crewe are a very good side. They are similar to us and we are under no illusion it’s going be a tough test. We have to be at our best.”

Matt Bevans, Watford Under-18s Lead Coach

Player Chat

“It is the pinnacle for the Under-18s age group. I think it really sets the tone for who are you as a player, and if you do well and progress, it puts your name on other people’s radars.

“It is good to have different scenery, different perspectives on the match. There will be some fans there which is exciting, so I am looking forward to it.”

Amin Nabizada, Watford Under-18s forward

Tickets

The next generation of Hornets would be grateful for your support tomorrow evening.

Tickets are priced at just £5 for adults and £1 for Under-18s and can be bought online HERE.

Follow The Game

Not able to attend?

We will be running a live blog from Kings Langley, both at watfordfc.com and on the official club app.

You can also follow match updates on our X account @WatfordFCAcad, while the website and app will have a report and reaction after the game.