Arsenal reach FA Cup final - reaction

1. MOTD live coverage on BBC One and online
2. Arsenal edge through to final after extra time
3. Keeper Federici fumbles Sanchez shot for winner
4. McCleary leveller had sent match to extra time

And that will be that for a day where Arsenal reached a 19th FA Cup final - an English record.

We have a number of follow-up pieces planned so stay tuned to the BBC Sport website, the match report is here.

Match of the Day gets started at 22:30 BST. Go on, you know you want to...

An afternoon to remember or forget

They say a picture is worth a thousand words.

What would this one say? Joy, ecstasy, pain, agony.

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What a game we were served. What a display by the underdog - a recurring pattern in the FA Cup this season. And what a moment of calamity to decide things.

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Former Reading striker Jason Roberts tweets: Gutted for Adam Federici there is not a better man you would want fighting alongside you..I am proud to call him my friend...

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Who do Arsenal fans want to face in the FA Cup final on 30 May?

Sho: Villa. Cannot stand Liverpool fans. Besides, Villa could do with a cup final considering the season they have had.

Tweet us on #bbcfacup.

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An aside from the Wembley result, one keen eyed viewer has spotted something uncanny.

Ben Brownleetweeted us on #bbcfacup saying: Great show and match GaryLineker but are you turning into Des Lynham!?

Ben Brownlee

Manager reaction

Reading boss Steve Clarke: "It's not a case of being robbed, it's about getting what you deserve from the game. The effort and the tactical and technical discipline was there. You feel for Adam Federici, this is the life of a goalkeeper. The big mistake. If you lose, you want to lose to a moment of brilliance not a mistake. But I'm sure if you did a shortlist of top three players at Reading this season, he would be up there. I told him [after the game] to keep his head up. The mistakes will freshen his mind. We win as a team and lose a team."

'Matter of time before we win silverware'

Former Reading chairman Sir John Madejski talking to the BBC: "I'm so proud of Reading and the fans must be delighted and now we have to concentrate on our league position. It's always a case of what might have been and to have lost that goal just before half time of extra time but it bodes well for the future of Reading football club and we live to fight another day.

"I think we played well above our level against an in form Arsenal. We'll be back and it's just a matter of time until we lift some silverware, we were always going to be underdogs and at the end of the day the best team won and the players and fans should be very proud."

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Who would you like to face in the final Arsenal fans? Liverpool or a resurgent Aston Villa? Tweet us on #bbcfacup.

Manager reaction

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger on the performance of Alexis Sanchez: "He struggled to get into the game but has that stubborn resilience and individual potential."

I'd hate to see the damage he would cause if he did get into the game.

Proud of my players

BBC Radio 5 live

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Reading manager Steve Clarke: "It was a really good performance, I feel for the players they gave everything, feel for the supporters they gave everything. It should have been a good afternoon for us but sometimes in football you do not get reward for such a good performance.

"The second-half we grew into the game and found belief and found a bit of quality to get back into the game. It is a good job there was goalline technology otherwise I am not sure they would have given us the goal.; We should have had a penalty in the 65th minute for a handball. You need these moments to go for us.

"Federici is upset, he had made a mistake in a key game but he is a strong personality and has been magnificent for the club all season. Without his saves we would be in even more trouble at the bottom of the Championship."

Federici in a lonely place

Reading manager Steve Clarke tells BBC Radio 5 live goalkeeper that Adam Federici has been taken to doping control.

It's fair to say probably not what the stopper needed.

"He will be sat on his own without anyone around him," former Hull City midfielder Kevin Kilbane tells BBC radio 5 live's 606.

Ozil in the groove

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The two games in which Ozil has laid on two goals have both arrived since March.

The German international played 114 passes, that's more than any other player on the pitch. He completed 90.4% of them. A stellar display.

Manager reaction

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says Reading were ready to "die" on the pitch, such was their effort for 120 minutes.

"It was a very difficult game against a well-organised, physical and resilient Reading team," he says. "They defended very well.

"After half-time we didn't have the same intensity in the first half. We started to suffer and paid for it.

"Reading were ready to die on the pitch to get to the final and we have to congratulate them on their effort today."

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Those campaigns came in 1998, 2003 and 2014.

BBC Radio 5 live

Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny, who is celebrating his 25th birthday today, said: "I am happy we are through but I thought Federici was terrific today. He had the game of his life and they only got to extra time because of him. He was the best player on the pitch. I really feel for him, I have been there, done that."

Szczesny's mistake allowed Birmingham's Obafemi Martins to score the winner in the 2011 League Cup final at Wembley.

Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright

Match of the Day at Wembley

"I am pleased with the win but I am distraught for Adam Federici. I would rather win on penalties. It is something you don't get over. He has to close his legs and get his body behind the ball. It is harsh but that is it.

"What is more upsetting is when Arsenal are playing these teams they start so slowly. It is disappointing to see them play like that.

"Winning the FA Cup will be a fantastic way to end the season for Arsenal."

606 phone-in

BBC Radio 5 live

The lines are open for 606 with Kelly Cates and Kevin Kilbane.

They want your reaction to Arsenal's extra-time victory over Reading at Wembley to reach the FA Cup final.

Leicester are of the off the bottom of the Premier League for the first time since November - can they pull off a great escape?

After Chelsea's win over Manchester United - is that the title completely over?

We also want to hear from fans of Bristol City, who were confirmed champions of League One and Burton Albion - who were promoted from League Two today.

Call: 0500 909 693

Text: 850 58

We're BBC 606 on Social media.

Join the debate at #bbcfacup

James.Pheney: Lucky as per usual from Arsenal. Even Neuer made a mistake like Federici a few weeks ago. Come on Reading!!!!!!

Ben Chowns-Smith: Got to feel for Federici. It was a bad error but he's still human. Hard to see someone leave the field in tears.

Zahid: Michael Hector did us all proud! What a performance! The Fresh Prince of East Ham, this won't be the last we see of him!

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That last Alan Shearer entry sent a shiver through me. Imagine spending the rest of your life being reminded of your most embarrassing moment. Sport at its most brutal does not hurt you physically but will pollute your very being for eternity.

Former England striker Alan Shearer

BBC One

"It's not nice to see when it comes down to one individual, Adam Federici will remember that for rest of his life and people will mention it to him for the rest of his life. He actually played very well but it's agony for him, the players and the fans. But one thing Steve Clarke would have said to his players is to give everything, not to leave anything on the pitch and they did that."

Man of the Match

This is a picture of the man of the match.

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Alexis Sanchez picked up 70% of the vote.

Two goals, 75% of his passes completed and three chances created. He mucked in alright.

Manager reaction

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger speaking to BBC Sport: "A tough game yes. They defended well and we didn't find our stride. They were strong in challenges and we struggled to win 50/50s. They were on a different planet for motivation. It is a semi-final and it does not go easy. A team like that, the occasion of their life, and they will not give up.

"We controlled the first half comfortably but they came into it second half. We started flat but they were more aggressive and we lost more balls.

"When you are in the final you can win it. We will prepare well, finish well in the league and then come back here and do all we can to win it. We all want a trophy. It is difficult to deliver but all you want is the attitude."

AP

The numbers show Arsenal's upper hand but none can sum up the calamitous circumstances in which their win was sealed.

Arsene Wenger's side played 851 passes to Reading's 314. While Reading may draw plaudits for their battle, the Premier League side won more duels on the day, 96 to 71.

Former England winger Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"You have got to say Reading put in a spirited performance and at times they matched Arsenal. They rolled their sleeves up, they were honest and committed but overall the best team won.

"Arsenal had that extra bit of quality and it showed, they have played better in the last two months but they are in a final and have a chance to win it but they will have to play better against either Liverpool or Aston Villa."

Images of Adam Federici before he raced down the tunnel make for uncomfortable viewing. He is absolutely distraught.

Reuters

Player reaction

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey has swapped shirts with the man who was best man at his wedding Chris Gunter and tells BBC Sport his side were "made to work" for their progress.

"We knew it was going to be a tough game but they came out and showed great character to come back into it," says Ramsey. "We were on the ropes at times but dealt with it and had a bit of luck with the last goal.

"On these occasions things like that happen but Reading made us work for this today."

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Lee Allen: Got to be one of the cruellest ways to concede and so harsh on Federici as he made some stunning saves.

Tomas Austin: I'm an Arsenal fan and even I feel bad for the Reading keeper.

ARSENAL REACH THE FA CUP FINAL

There will be tears. They will belong to Reading fans and Adam Federici will cry his own river. What a way to exit.

Arsenal will contest their 19th FA Cup final on 30 May.

Alexis Sanchez shoots in pursuit of a hat-trick but the wall does its job.

The Gunners slow the ball down, killing time, they have it in a tight grip. Theo Walcott injects some pace, that's what he does, foul by Danny Williams on the edge of the area and I think that is this race won...

Arsenal have around 90 seconds to go. Win and they are the most successful team in FA Cup history with more trophies and final appearances combined than any other side.

Here come the long balls into their area but Arsenal stand tall and break...

Now it is kitchen sink time. Get that ball forward if you want to prolong this one Royals. They do but Jamie Mackie is flagged offside.

This is still gripping.

Arsenal probe. No sign of them shutting up shop, not in their make-up.

Michael Hector foils Theo Walcott. He has been outstanding at the back for Reading.

Have we reached kitchen sink time? Maybe not yet, another minute or two. Reading need to pepper that Arsenal area with trouble.

Chris Gunter gets forward from full-back but cannot deliver a cross under pressure.

Reading's supporters look concerned. The songs seem to have dried up for the first time today.

Wonderful stuff from Mesut Ozil as he sparks an attack with a deft backheel then collects a return from Aaron Ramsey to slip in Olivier Giroud... shot... post. The angle was getting tighter with every millisecond and Giroud rattled the near post.

Reading look on bleary eyed as Arsenal keep possession for a spell, drawing any unwanted sting out of this game with every nudge of the ball.

Yakubu is on for Pavel Pogrebnyak who has been a nuisance today, maybe that change is a bit surprising.

Reading have to make free-kicks like this count, it's in the Arsenal half, up come the big men and one gets a flick on it but Wojciech Szczesny is brave and punches as he jumps over bodies.

Yakubu is coming on shortly...

Former England winger Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"I think the keeper will put his hand up there, he could have done better. It was a tired shot from Sanchez to the near post and the keeper spills the ball. You have to feel sorry for Reading for the effort they had put in."

Adam Federici has made seven saves today, Wojciech Szczesny - three.

What will the papers say about this? Lucky? A let off? Would a third goal at least gloss over some Arsenal fortune?

Mesut Ozil has a go but pulls a shot wide from the edge of the area. Left footed, it's wayward.

So what have you got Reading? You may as well throw everything at this now and Jamie Mackie does, shooting over from 25 yards.

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy

BBC One

"Adam Federici has played well, made some excellent saves, but that's a howler. I genuinely feel sorry for the lad. It took a slight deflection, but it is still no excuse."

BBC

Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright

Match of the Day at Wembley

"The goalkeeper will never forget something like that. But I don't feel like the game is over."

BBC

GOAL

Moments ago Adam Federici made a hash of an Aaron Ramsey shot but got out of jail, this time he is punished and it's tough to watch. Cruel, brutal, horrible.

Alexis Sanchez cuts in from the left flank, he wants shooting space in the area but when it arrives the effort is tame. An easy pick up? Nope. It squirms through his body, trickles over the line and Federici sinks to the turf.

BBC

Magical cross-field pass by Santi Cazorla finds Kieran Gibbs who crosses, well cleared. Pavel Pogrebnyak will compete for that punt and does well, he races into the area but his effort is blocked.

CLOSE!

Adam Federici's heart just leapt into his mouth and dropped back down again. He makes a meal of Aaron Ramsey's strike from 30 yards and parries the low drive over his bar. That ball could have gone anywhere.

Mesut Ozil with a beautifully disguised pass to find Alexis Sanchez but Nathaniel Chalobah springs to rattle the Chilean's cage. He gobbled that ball up, great defending.

SUBSTITUTION

And after much build-up, Francis Coquelin departs for Theo Walcott. That's a deep midfielder sacrificed which will probably see Santi Cazorla drop back a touch.

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Karl Simmonds: Reading superb, Arsenal below par. But where is Theo Walcott?

Arsenal Crew: Extra time is screaming for Walcott with his pace.

David Kent: My nerves will not last another 30 minutes.

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Former England midfielder Danny Murphy

BBC One

"I'm still baffled by the fact we have not seen Theo Walcott for Arsenal."

We will in a moment.

Feed the Yak? Yakubu is on the bench for Reading, chewing away. He sniffs goals and looks a great option. Reading are so well organised. A back four, three bodies in front of it, then another two, then Pogrebnyak. Again it does the job as Arsenal are forced to go long and Olivier Giroud is offside.

Reading again get bodies behind the ball as Arsenal build slowly. The architects - Mesut Ozil and Santi Cazorla - are deep, that will please the Championship side and they pounce to win the ball back through Jem Karacan.

Former England winger Chris Waddle

Match of the Day live at Wembley

"This period is a little bit like the beginning of the game again. Reading look tired and are letting Arsenal dominate the ball. Steve Clarke's side have to lift the tempo."

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LaurenLola: Arsenal have definitely underestimated reading! Premier League Player of the Month doesn't join the pitch till 70 minutes in. Why?!

Olivier Giroud has already had two shots since his introduction.

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Former Reading chairman John Madejski is sat with a blue scarf on and a worried look on his face. He is engaged in conversation with FA chairman Greg Dyke. Hopefully that's not the cause of the worry, it's probably the antics of his beloved team.

Mesut Ozil with a delicate flick on to Olivier Giroud as Arsenal inject some pace into an attack but it's not under the Frenchman's spell and Reading's narrow back line clear. The diligence and awareness of Reading's defenders has been superb all day. They see danger coming like a missile detector.

Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright

Match of the Day at Wembley

"We have waited 90 minutes for Arsenal to get going. Arsenal should be beating Reading, but Reading should take a lot of credit. Arsenal will have to do more to win this."

KICK-OFF

And so we go again. Reading attack the Arsenal end. They have two substitutions to make, Arsenal just one. Who has more in the tank?

Former England striker Alan Shearer, Match of the Day at Wembley

BBC Sport

"Reading have been magnificent, they have given everything to the cause and deserve the score line. They have worked their socks off, created chances, defended well and deserve to be where they are. They had one hell of an opportunity now I hope they don't regret it.

"I get the impression they thought all they had to do was turn up to win the game, They have been leggy and sloppy other than one or two pieces of brilliance. Other than that they have not offered a lot, their passing has been slow and they have been punished."

606 phone-in

BBC Radio 5 live

The lines are open for 606 with Kelly Cates and Kevin Kilbane.

They want your reaction to the outcome of the FA Cup semi-final between Arsenal and Reading.

Leicester are of the off the bottom of the Premier League for the first time since November - can they pull off a great escape?

If Chelsea go on to beat Manchester United - is that the title completely over?

We also want to hear from fans of Bristol City, who were confirmed champions of League One and Burton Albion - who were promoted from League Two today.

Call: 0500 909 693

Text: 850 58

We're BBC 606 on Social media.

Former Reading striker Jason Roberts

Match of the Day at Wembley

"We did say earlier that there will be times in the game when Reading will be able to sit off and coast for periods, trying to conserve some energy, but when they have got in Arsenal's face they have been committed and the plan has worked perfectly. The only question now is will fatigue kick in?"

Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright

Match of the Day at Wembley

"Arsenal have been very disappointing today. Reading will have to work hard as Arsenal will have a lot of possession in extra-time, but Reading do deserve something. Once again when Arsenal are overwhelming favourites they do not get out of the blocks quick enough."

Arsene Wenger is hunched down on the ground with his troops circled around him. Santo Cazorla is sat down, shin pads out. There is a tired look about the Spaniard.

Opta

Here is his touch map. More touches than anybody else.

FULL-TIME

We go on.

Arsenal fans, penny for your thoughts. Championship opposition at this stage a year ago, extra time needed, second tier opponents again, same outcome.

What a brave Reading display in the second period.

Last chance. Free-kick Arsenal swung in by Santi Cazorla and Olivier Giroud can only head into the hands of Adam Federici.

Two minutes added on.

BBC

Chance again for Arsenal and it's Aaron Ramsey with the opportunity to win it for the Gunners. It was tougher than his previous one but a good one nonetheless. Kieran Gibbs makes progress down the left and crosses for the Welshman who can only divert over the bar. Big chance.

In fairness to Pavel Pogrebnyak, on first sight he could have used the two versus one advantage but Jamie Mackie looks so leggy he barely made a run for him.

This is pulsating stuff. Pavel Pogrebnyak on the ball, midway into the Arsenal half, it's a two versus one situation but he will go alone and his touch is poor and costs the Royals a golden chance.

What an end to this 90 minutes.

Former England winger Chris Waddle

Match of the Day live at Wembley

"What a fantastic counter attack to break through the middle of Reading's defence. I thought Aaron Ramsey was going to go down at first but he stayed on his feet and I thought his shot was in - like everyone did. How did he hit the post?"

BBC

HITS THE WOODWORK

I just said Aaron Ramsey was quiet. The crashing sound his shot against the post just made has shaken me to my boots.

What a chance, some may say what a miss. The midfielder bursts forward to collect a pass and is in behind the Reading defence, inside the area, goal at his mercy , his first shot is saved but as the rebound falls and the angle narrows, he smashes the woodwork from six yards.

BBC

GREAT SAVE!

Nathaniel Chalobah cuts in from the left flank and has a dip... it is a dip indeed as the ball moves in the air and Wojciech Szczesny has to dive to his right to save well.

BBC

Former England winger Chris Waddle

Match of the Day live at Wembley

"Arsene Wenger looks very frustrated. He's walking up and down the touchline as if to say, how are we drawing this game? Steve Clarke is shouting at his team, barking orders for them to keep their shape."

Santi Cazorla on 90 touches is undoubtedly the man who makes Arsenal tick. He starts another attack, caressing the ball wide to Kieran Gibbs. Aaron Ramsey has been quiet and he tries to bulldoze his way through Reading. No way through Rambo. Not even with a nickname like that.

Jamie Mackie is wrestling with a defender, a mini war, the ball breaks free and Pavel Pogrebnyak will drive at the Arsenal area, he again shows decent pace but a left-foot strike from a tough angle will dribble across goal.

A Gooner competition

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If Arsenal progress today they will top the list for FA Cup final appearances on 19.

Steve Clarke is pointing and yelling at his troops from the touchline to make sure that doesn't happen, and here they come again...

Jamie Mackie pumps up the Reading fans with a war cry, not that they need it. What a display they have produced in this second period. Much more of the ball with far more intent.

Can Arsenal get Olivier Giroud into the game? THEY CAN... but Alexis Sanchez puts too much on his return pass and the Frenchman will not catch that.

Former England winger Chris Waddle

Match of the Day live at Wembley

"Gabriel has to hit the target from there. He was only six or seven yards out - that header has to go in."

CLOSE!

Wow. Gabriel may have the name of an angel but this effort is anything but heavenly. The substitute somehow ghosts into space as Mesut Ozil delivers a free-kick, he must score, unmarked, eight yards out, just glance it... he gets too much of the ball and it's high and wide.

This competition continues to throw up absorbing games this year and with 18 minutes left, where is this latest drama going?

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SUBSTITUTION

Danny Welbeck departs, Olivier Giroud finally gets the nod. With 30 touches, Welbeck saw less of the ball than anyone in his team.

BBC

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy

BBC One

"He has made a run across the front post, there was no man there to stop him, but what a brilliant save that is. A superb save from a brilliant header from Gabriel."

HITS THE WOODWORK

Super-sub Gabriel... no. A brilliant run to meet a corner and he heads it with some force at the top corner but Adam Federici dons his Superman costume and palms the ball up and on to the bar. Superb play all round if you overlook the marking.

BBC

CLOSE!

BBC

What a chance. A shot at glory but a shot that dribbles well, well wide from American Danny Williams. The ball rolled across his path 18 yards out with a clear sight of goal but he caught it badly. Head in hands time.

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy

BBC One

"The game is crying out for someone like Theo Walcott. It would be so easy for an Arsenal player to make the pass that he could race on to with his pace."

PENALTY APPEAL

"HANDBALL. HANDBALL." The shouts go up as Reading attack. Their fans behind the goal are making some noise.

Mathieu Debuchy was the offender on two occasions in their eyes as he blocked crosses from Hal Robson-Kanu. One of them was right on the edge of the area, arguably in it, a tough and close call.

BBC

Former England striker Gary Lineker, BBC One

BBC Sport

"The league title is as good as done, but the FA Cup is wide-open. Arsenal are under the cosh."

Chelsea lead Manchester United as we speak and will go 10 points clear if they hold on. You can follow a live text on that one here.

Join the debate at #bbcfacup

Belete Eshetea: That is why Wojciech Szczesny is our number two goalkeeper!

Kurt Booth: Szczesny looks off vacantly into the distance after that goal... probably at his career evaporating. He should have saved that.

lfcway: Reading deserve that. Game on!

Jay: Who needs a Plan B if you've got Wojciech Szczesny in the opposition goal.

Get involved on Twitter using #bbcfacup or post a comment on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

You can also text us in the UK only on 81111 - but please don't forget to include your name and location.

SUBSTITUTION

Arsenal's first change is not Olivier Giroud, it's a problem at the other end as Per Mertesacker limps to the touchline like a sulking child. Head down, he looks angry. Gabriel is the man coming on. Like for like.

BBC

Former England winger Chris Waddle

Match of the Day live at Wembley

"It will be interesting to see what Arsenal do now. How long will it be before somebody like Olivier Giroud comes on?"

Former Arsenal goalkeeper Bob Wilson is in the crowd. He was of course in goal when they lost at the semi-final stage to unfashionable Sunderland in 1973. I wonder if he's getting a bit hot under the collar.

Danny Welbeck is offering a selfless run into the left channel and his hold up play brings Mesut Ozil into the fray, he shapes to play another clever pass but it troubles no one and rolls for a goal kick.

Hands up if you saw that coming? Mine is certainly down.

Are Reading going to do a Bradford, Blackburn or Middlesbrough and rumble one of the big boys?

Arsenal settle after the goal, it's slow build-up across the back line though and Reading players just occupy their zones diligently to form a compact unit.

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy

BBC One

"It started with Mathieu Debuchy losing the ball sloppily. Then the throw-in, but it was good play from Pavel Pogrebnyak to Garath McCleary, it took a deflection off Kieran Gibbs but Wojciech Szczesny should have done a lot better. He needed to be stronger."

BBC

Former England winger Chris Waddle

Match of the Day live at Wembley

"It's a very well worked goal and Reading have been much better since the restart, but for me Wojciech Szczesny should be saving it. I think it's the deflection that puts him off. The ball comes off Kieran Gibbs and bounces up very awkwardly.

"Reading are on the front foot and are starting to enjoy their football now. They're not letting Arsenal dictate the pace of the game anymore."

BBC

GOAL

Go on Steve Clarke, celebrate. Don't be a misery. Your side have just levelled up an FA Cup semi-final. You can manage more than a fist pump.

It's a goal full of hard work, just like his side have been in large parts. Pavel Pogrebnyak holds off a challenge and for a big man, shows turn of foot to get to the dead ball line and clip a cross across the face of goal where Garath McCleary stretches to volley in. It's crossed the line has it? Yes. Confusion over, he races to celebrate and a line of players chase to wrestle him to ground as one half of Wembley erupts.

BBC

Hector passes into midfield, into Williams, on to Robson-Kanu, this is nice stuff from Reading, it flows. Left-wing position for the Wales international, he crosses but that's woeful and clears the crossbar.

Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright

Match of the Day at Wembley

"With Olivier Giroud in the side Arsenal tend to play much quicker up top. Danny Welbeck doesn't maybe have the same strength as Giroud has and as a result they seem to prefer to go wide. Arsenal can still go another 10% or 20% better than they are doing at the moment."

Garath McCleary takes off like a slalom skier down the Reading right, leaving crossing space is he? No. Too many red shirts. But the attack remains, down goes Pavel Pogrebnyak looking for a free-kick on the edge of the area. Nothing doing. Mesut Ozil gets a decision on halfway though, much to the audible frustration of those wearing blue.

Former England winger Chris Waddle

Match of the Day live at Wembley

"Reading are never going to beat Arsenal by trying to play the better football. Steve Clarke's side need to hustle them, break the play up and get the ball forward a bit quicker. When they did get decent possession in the first half they tended to waste it."

Michael Hector is involved a lot again in the Reading defence. A massive up and under to clear is quickly followed by a trip on Alexis Sanchez. He just could not live with a clever touch.

A crossing chance for Santi Cazorla and Per Mertesacker senses another Wembley goal but he diverts the ball wide off his back. He threw his head at it but judged the flight of the ball wrong.

BBC

KICK-OFF

Here we go again. A huge section of seats on halfway are empty as the teams get things going again. The shade has moved so Arsenal's defenders will again be under it. And Reading win an early free-kick in the oppositions' half.

Join the debate at #bbcfacup

Kurt Booth: Sanchez demonstrated in that finish the kind of dead-eyed calm he has brought to Arsenal which has helped settle a nervous team.

Rishi Verma: A shame Reading aren't able to make more use of the ball in the final third of the pitch after working so hard to retrieve it.

Jordan Cole: How average have arsenal looked but give a player like Sanchez half a chance and he'll take it.

Patrick Coppins: That is what a combined £75million gets you. Pure class from Ozil and Sanchez.

Former Arsenal & Reading defender Martin Keown

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

BBC

"Reading have been very brave, they've played a very high line. Arsenal interchange brilliantly and as soon as they get in behind your midfield, you're vulnerable. Steve Clarke's side started very well, I thought Jamie Mackie was really unlucky to have been given offside. They just need a little bit more care and belief. The manager will be in there now trying to inspire his players, because these opportunities don't come around very often."

Former Reading striker Jason Roberts

Match of the Day at Wembley

"I was hoping Reading would begin in the way they did. They were compact and organised and pressured Arsenal. But you can't do that without leaving space in behind. For 39 minutes they performed so well but Mesut Ozil, with a little bit of quality, has undone them. There will be chances for Reading though."

Opta

Ozil has been busy picking the ball up all over the final third as he drifts around. His 58 touches is only bettered by Santi Cazorla's 62.

Former England captain Alan Shearer

Match of the Day at Wembley

"In fairness to Reading I thought they were brave to play two up front. Not a lot of teams do that against Arsenal and they got tight on them. Steve Clarke's side acquitted themselves well but that one bit of quality for the goal was top drawer. On the whole though Arsenal will be disappointed in the way they have played. For 39 minutes they were poor. Lethargic and sluggish."

Opta

Arsenal have had 74% of the ball but much of the play has been in midfield with Reading working hard to cut out balls into the final third. The Gunners made just six tackles in the first half.

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy, BBC One

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"They have done well Reading, they have to be careful to not feel sorry for themselves and take the positives out of the half. They have not been in lots of trouble, they have been defending for their lives courageously. They will get a chance in the second-half."

AFP

Nabil Hassan

BBC Sport at Wembley

"That goal was tough on Reading but it had been coming with Arsenal continually knocking on the blue door. It needed a magical pass to unlock that Reading defence and now at half time it is the Arsenal fans who can sense yet another FA Cup final. Reading have 45 minutes to find a way back into this game."

AFP

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Alexis Sanchez had 35 touches in that opening period and ultimately had the most important one. He completed 79% of his passes. Mesut Ozil is on 94%.

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Former England winger Chris Waddle

Match of the Day live at Wembley

Steve Clarke needs to get his team sorted out because their concentration is dropping. Has Clarke got a plan B? If he doesn't you can really see Arsenal running away with this."

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HALF-TIME

Those are the margins I guess. A half full of fight and on times rush defending by Reading ends with a brief lapse in concentration, a well-timed run and potentially a decisive moment.

What now? Does Steve Clarke call for more attacking intent and risk watching the horror of his side being picked off?

YELLOW CARD

As the half draws to a close Nathaniel Chalobah blots his copy book with a tackle on Kieran Gibbs. It's a bruiser, not dirty, but enough for a yellow.

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy, BBC One

"You can't keep good players quiet. Sanchez has been frustrated up until now but what a great finish that is, how calm he was. It was the first opportunity in front of goal. There was a patient build-up, with a packed defence and a brilliant pass from Ozil. That's the quality you get. Sanchez was a little bit fortunate, the shot just popped through the keeper's legs."

Danny Williams is at the sharp end of the break in the Arsenal penalty area but he cannot volley a dropping ball on target, it dribbles well wide of goal.

Danny Welbeck - a man Arsene Wenger admitted he was surprised by when he saw how quick he was in training - is using his leggy stride to bounce through the Reading defence but his cut-back his hacked for a corner. A second corner follows but now Reading break...

OUCH!

That's 21 goals for the season for Alexis. His reward? A naughty little foul by Danny Williams who leaves a little bit on his man when the ball has gone.

Former England winger Chris Waddle

Match of the Day live at Wembley

"A class goal from a class player. It was a lovely ball in from Mesut Ozil, and Alexis Sanchez provides a quality finish. His movement and his touch is so good. Reading just have to keep it tight until half-time now."

BBC

GOAL

Alexis Sanchez makes the sign of the cross, he has a goal at Wembley and it oozes quality.

Quality in the build-up as Mesut Ozil shapes onto his left foot 40 yards out and curls a ball over the centre of the Reading defence to find the run. It's there to bang but Sanchez resists and wrong foots the covering defender. A pause, a prod of his right foot, it's under Adam Federici from around 10 yards and that is a big, big goal at a great time for Arsenal.

BBC

BBC

Nabil Hassan

BBC Sport at Wembley

"Steve Clarke will be relatively pleased with Reading's start. They're compact and organised and Jamie Mackie is providing his side with a threat up front. Clarke spent much of the opening 20 minutes patrolling his technical area barking instructions as things quieten down at Wembley."

The snippet of sun that penetrates Wembley's opening is shining down on Arsenal's back four and they knock the ball around slowly to release Debuchy and launch an attack, snuffled out again. Reading's closing of space is impressive, they fill pockets and intercept with frequency.

Hector pings one from their defence and that's a throw in high up the field. A breather for this industrious bunch.

The perfect 10

Have any pre-match expectations of a straight-forward Arsenal progression now been dismissed?

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Reading's endeavour all over the field is evident and Jordan Obita's cross has to be blocked by Debuchy after some nice passing in midfield by the Championship side.

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy

BBC One

"Michael Hector has started the game really well. He looks confident and athletic. You can see why Premier League scouts would be interested. It's hard to believe that Reading are where they are in the Championship. They have some youth, some experience and some talent."

Watch the action by hitting the live coverage tab at the top of this page. (UK only)

Michael Hector is impressing in the Reading back line early on, sliding, jumping, covering, you name it. He has already won possession back three times for his side, though he has lost the ball on five occasions. Perhaps the 22-year-old is a spoiler and not an artist.

Ouch!

Laurent Koscielny may have a shiner from Jamie Mackie - unintentional. It looks like an arm to the face. Alexis Sanchez may have a bruise or two too as he gets rumbled in midfield by a mixture of Garath McCleary and Nathaniel Chalobah. Nothing like a bit of rough and tumble.

Good work ethic from Steve Clarke's side on show.

BBC

BBC

CLOSE!

Alexis Sanchez leaps like a frog at the back post to meet Mathieu Debuchy's cross but he cannot quite get enough pace on his header to beat Adam Federici.

THIS TIME MAYBE, the Chilean is in from Cazorla's pass and out rushes Federici... Sanchez is there first and pushes the ball past the keeper, goes to ground, nothing given.

There was no appeal from Arsenal but a hairy moment to say the least for Reading. Rapid stuff from Federici.

BBC

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The Gunners have had around 77% of the ball so far and there's no doubt the clever touches that so often define their goals are on show, Aaron Ramsey nearly flicks an opening but a blue and white shirts is in the way.

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy

BBC One

"You can tell Mesut Ozil is playing with more confidence. He is playing in the middle and wanting the ball more.

"Francis Coquelin has been superb for Arsenal recently and is now probably one of their first names on the teamsheet. All credit to him for thinking his Arsenal career wasn't over and getting in the team."

An un-Arsenal left footed hack upfield by Kieran Gibbs ends a scrappy Reading attack. So far their efforts going forward have lacked fluidity but there is enough hustle there to build hope of something happening if Arsene Wenger's side briefly tune out. The rhythm comes at the other end as Ozil interchanges and Cazorla curls one about three feet over from 20 yards.

BBC

Former England winger Chris Waddle

Match of the Day live at Wembley

"I thought that free-kick from Mesut Ozil was going in and Adam Federici did too, plunging to the left of his goal.

"It's been a pretty even game so far. Arsenal are edging it on possession but Reading do carry a threat. When they get the ball down out wide they look very dangerous."

Arsenal have a free-kick in a glory area - central and around 30 yards from the net. Mesut Ozil fancies a bit of this, licking his lips he curls one just off target.

The club's most expensive ever signing has some stage to impress on here. Does he have the needle to pick this Championship side apart?

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy

BBC One

"Apart from the one attack from Arsenal, Reading should be very pleased with themselves. It is a positive start, they have got good numbers forward when they have attacked, but with Arsenal's quality and pace you always have to be switched on."

BBC

Good work by Reading defender Michael Hector to cover and end Arsenal hopes of getting in behind. At 22, he will take that moment to settle some nerves. You get the sense these Reading players have had the seriousness of this Arsenal threat drilled into them all week. Their eyes are those of men on red alert.

Wembley draws a breath after a frenetic start as Garath McCleary lines up a free-kick delivery. It's a big build-up, bodies in the area smuggle a clearance but only as far as Nathaniel Chalobah who volleys wide via a deflection.

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy

BBC One

"Jamie Mackie is quicker than Per Mertesacker, and that's what Mackie is good at, using his pace and power to make the runs and that is something that Mertesacker does not enjoy."

Watch the action by hitting the live coverage tab at the top of this page. (UK only)

CLOSE!

Jamie Mackie's heart skips a beat as he spins in behind, he can run clear at the Wembley goal can he? No. The flag goes up but it looks a disputable call and the energetic striker puts his hands on his heads. He saw the headlines briefly.

BBC

Is this a sign?

Anyone looking for a premonition?

Earlier this week Reading beat Arsenal in under-21 action. The goalscorer was Niall Keown, the son of a certain former Arsenal centre-half - Martin.

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Niall, 20, has already got his hands on the Premier League trophy. Here he is picture (left) with his old man back in 2004.

Former England winger Chris Waddle

Match of the Day live at Wembley

"It's what we expected so far, with Arsenal dominating possession and Reading defending in numbers. Earlier Danny Welbeck was played through with a ball over the top and the Reading back two clearly can't keep up with him. That's why Welbeck has been selected to play today - for his pace."

CLOSE!

The Royals take the jabs and go counter-punch through Jordan Obita. A cross-field pass rolls into his path, why not? Whack. It's down the throat of Wojciech Szczesny from 25 yards and his handling is admirable.

CLOSE!

Wriggle, duck, roll, wriggle, Alexis Sanchez is up to his usual tricks to evade challenges in the area... finds space... shoots, corner. Here it comes... MERTESACKER... great save by Federici at his near post. He had to get down low to keep that header out on the line.

Arsenal are on their toes, Reading taking some jabs.

BBC

CLOSE!

Danny Welbeck is in behind, chasing down a long clip from Kieran Gibbs... chance... good work by Adam Federici. The keeper is quick off the line, quicker than the rapid Welbeck and manages to palm the ball onto the striker, it deflects for a goal kick. A yard less zip on that ball and Welbeck was in.

AFP

Aaron Ramsey is down on the halfway line holding his eye. It looks like someone has caught him - Jonathan Obita - to be precise. He'll be OK, some of the magic spray, actually maybe not if it's his eye. We're rolling again...

Reading adopt a rugby union stance and box Arsenal into their own corner early on but Jamie Mackie fells Alexis Sanchez to end the pressure. A chance for Danny Welbeck to stretch his legs down the left flank, here he goes, sets Alexis Sanchez but his driven cross-field pass is only ever going for a goal kick.

Maybe even he is feeling the butterflies?

'Make sure you go home a winner'

Former Arsenal & Reading defender Martin Keown

Match of the Day at Wembley

"Mentally the players have to have had the right preparation, they have to have the balance between a steely determination to go and win while expressing yourself. You don't want any regrets. Give a good account of yourselves.

"Arsenal will feel they can win it, bur Reading have nothing to lose today. They have to go and enjoy the occasion."

KICK-OFF

The whistle can barely be heard but off we go and Reading go direct to win a throw in deep in Arsenal territory. Settle down gents, ease your way in...

The coin toss done, both these sides will attack their own fans in the second half.

BBC

It can happen... sometimes

"Nobody outside Wearside could have expected us to lose to Sunderland in the semi-final at Hillsborough. They were nothing more than a middle-to-average sort of Second Division side." - Arsenal midfielder Peter Storey.

But they did, in 1973 on a muddy pie of a pitch in Sheffield. In the 42 years since, the Gunners have not lost a semi-final to a team outside the top flight.

Over to you Reading...

Set-piece weakness

Alan Shearer

BBC Sport

"No team in the Premier League has conceded more goals form corners than Arsenal, they are very static. If they do it right today Reading they will cause problems. Another way is catch Arsenal on the counterattack, get at them quick. It will at least give Reading a chance."

Feel the noise...

The players stand in the tunnel. Arsenal in striped red and white tracksuits to the right of Reading players who are in their match shirts, no need for an over-layer for them. They stride, proudly out into the cauldron that is Wembley.

Both crests are laid in the centre of each half, the handshakes come. We have four teams left in the FA Cup, let the storytelling it is so famous for end briefly, time for business.

BBC

Picture the scene...

Final stretches, final discussions, inevitable nerves.

The Reading changing room will be a hub of emotion right now. This is a team with no win in over a month remember, so they could be forgiven for being slightly fearful. What is Steve Clarke saying?

ReadingFC

Across the tunnel is a room full of household names, packed with players in superb form. Be patient, play your game, don't get dragged into anything, what is Arsene Wenger saying?

Arsenal FC

Did you know: Next to the changing rooms in Wembley is a warm-up room. This has nets to protect the ceiling but is around the size of say three standard domestic garages. Players can get a little feel for the ball in there.

'Reading can handle the occasion'

Former Reading striker Jason Roberts

Match of the Day at Wembley

BBC

"Reading will not be thinking about this as a day out, but as a chance to win against Arsenal. They were 4-0 up after 45 minutes in that League Cup game a few years back, and yes they went on to lose but it shows you can trouble them.

"Reading need to make this the kind of game that suits them. They can handle the occasion, and they believe they can give Arsenal a hard time today. It looks like I didn't get the 'grey suit memo' and will be supporting colours today but I am impartial."

BBC

Pressure is on Arsenal

BBC Radio 5 live

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Reading manager Steve Clarke: "We have to play the perfect game with no mistakes and find a way to score a goal. We have to find a way to be more creative. When we get into a good positions we need to produce moments of quality to score.

"We go into the game with a bit of freedom, the pressure is on Arsenal. Everyone expects Arsenal to go though."

It has to be Arsenal

Alan Shearer

BBC Sport

"This is a game that Arsenal need to win. They have been on a magnificent win in the Premier League, but before that they had been under pressure with voices against Arsene Wenger. Without a doubt they are strong favourites here and you have to fancy them."

Reuters

Final instructions, let the nerves disappear

The players have disappeared back into the confides of Wembley, it's just the fans now, staring at one another at either end. One set full of expectancy, the others probably feeling some fear but with enough hope and defiance in the belly to think anything may be possible...

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The cup-keeper tactic

"I replaced Wojciech because he had a bad game," Arsene Wenger contritely said in his news conference this week.

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He is right, goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny's last league outing was against Southampton on 1 January and by golly he had a New Year's day to forget.

Since then, only FA Cup duty has kept him busy as David Ospina filled the void but as today is cup-tastic, Szczesny is in net.

"They know the rules. It is based on merit," added Wenger. "If you have a disastrous game you don't play in the next one. If Wojciech remained number one, Ospina would play on."

So Arsenal have a cup goalkeeper. Is anyone else still confused by the merits of changing your goalkeeper for cup games? Are the goals bigger in cup games? Does the ball travel faster?

I come from the land down under

Nabil Hassan

BBC Sport at Wembley

"Came over from Perth for the game," Kieron Campbell told BBC Sport.

"I'm Reading born and bred, but I've been over in Australia for 12 years now so I got hooked on Reading during the Elm Park days.

"Moved over for my girlfriend at the time and she is now my wife. She's not a huge football supporter. I listen to BBC Radio Berkshire every week to keep up with the games. My flight back in on Monday afternoon, this trip is purely for the FA Cup semi-final, I had no intention of doing it but I got carried away and I had a moment of realisation when I stopped over in Dubai and asked myself: 'why am I doing this?'. I'm not overly confident but hopefully it will be a great day. If we don't win I don't have to come back, if we do then I suspect I'll be back again."

We have just done the maths, a round trip from Perth to London comes in at a shade under 18,000 miles.

BBC One coverage to start

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There is a sea of blue behind one of the goals at Wembley, it punctuates the red seating. Balloons, funny hats, the usual FA Cup paraphernalia can be seen as the warm-ups draw to a close. Coverage kicks off on BBC one in just one minute so turn the TV on and lap it up.

Reading have a fighting chance

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Football Focus

Getty Images

"Its bittersweet to lose in an FA Cup semi-final. For me I think of Giggs' goal, it was a tremendous goal and I was proud to be involved in that match but it hurts.

"Today the players need to conserve their energy, enjoy the occasion, turn up and go for it. I feel Reading have a real fighting chance today."

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Apu: Already seen Arsenal fans complaining about "too many changes", but its not like Szczesny, Debuchy, Gibbs and Welbeck are bad players.

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Warm-up in the sunshine

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Here come the players, Theo Walcott is second in line as Arsenal step onto the pitch for a warm up. Per Mertesacker - who scored their crucial equaliser in the semi-final last year - is first out of the tunnel. He cannot wait to get out there, like a dog let off the lead.

It's nice and warm, the huge structure that is Wembley creates a shade over most of the pitch but those players will soon have a sweat on.

Warning! Warning!

It may have the feel of a pending destruction - Premier League in-form side take on Championship outfit, but think on.

The Gunners, chained and hampered by that long run without a trophy at this stage last year, ran into Wigan in the semi-finals and needed and 82nd minute equaliser and penalties to prevail.

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Oh yes, don't go big on too many one-sided predictions here. The FA Cup's last four loves to throw up a ding dong. Have a gander at this feature on semi-final battles if you don't believe me.

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Like Richard and Isobel in the previous entry, Reading's supporters have turned up en masse and are flooding Wembley Way as we speak. Try telling them on this day that the home of English football should not host semi-finals.

Reading FC/Twitter

Pounce on the chance

Nabil Hassan

BBC Sport at Wembley

One fan Reading fan I've spoken to named Richard will be at Wembley with his six-week year-old daughter (Isabel). He had to pay £43 for her seat.

"It's Wembley we don't get there very often, particularly in the FA Cup so she is potentially the only person there who could get to see a another one."

Getty Images

Unfamiliar territory

Google

Without sounding harsh, Reading's FA Cup record is dismal.

The Royals have never played in an FA Cup final in their 144-year history. They did make the semi-finals once but got thumped 3-0 by Cardiff City in 1927.

I guess that makes today very special for several generations of supporters. What may feel like routine, obligation and expected for Arsenal is dream like, raw and undoubtedly nerve-filled for the Championship side.

'Flexible Welbeck on form'

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy

Football Focus

BBC

"Danny Welbeck has played more at Arsenal than he did at Manchester United, and he's had good form even if his goal scoring has not quite been up to the level you'd expect. The fans have taken to him.

"He is very flexible, and his goal at United was such a sweet moment for him. I'm glad he celebrated it. Arsenal have such an array of fantastic attacking players but he is still contributing more than he was at Old Trafford."

No Giroud so over to you Danny...

A notable omission from the Arsenal XI is Olivier Giroud who has five goals in his last five games. His place on the bench shifts some focus on to Danny Welbeck who will probably play through the middle for Arsenal - his favoured role.

PA

John Hartson

BBC Radio 5 live

"Reading will play like supermen today, a lot of the players will have not played at Wembley. All the pressure will be on Arsene Wenger and Arsenal. They will be expecting an Arsenal win but will not have an easy ride. Reading and Steve Clarke will be right up for it."

PA

Breathe it in...

Reading's players are having a walk on the turf, gazing into the red seats to look for recognisable faces.

PA

Jordan Obita, at just 21, was keen to take it all in. No goals for him in 46 games this season. Talk about the stuff of dreams if he broke his duck here.

We are invincible (almost)

Arsenal, ridiculed for their soft centre at points earlier in the season, are on an eight-game winning streak in the league and the last time they made it to nine, it's fair to say they were a decent side.

An 'Invincible' side no less in 2003-04. Sure Francis Coquelin, Per Mertesacker and Olivier Giroud may not be Martin Keown, Patrick Vieria and Thierry Henry, but it's encouraging for Gunners fans no less.

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"You want to go to the final and get there," says manager Arsene Wenger. "You have to absolutely spot on with everything.

"You can always imagine the consequences of not going (through)... therefore there is only one way, and I have enough experience to know how big this game is."

Players are in the building...

Arsenal FC/Twitter

Both the sides have turned up, the usual array of bulky headphones on some players as they bounce down from the bus, through the mixed zone, through the tunnel and either right or left into their respective changing rooms.

Wembley Way on a Saturday

Nabil Hassan

BBC Sport at Wembley

BBC

"Among the Reading fans strolling down Wembley Way earlier was chairman of 25 years Sir John Madejski who took the opportunity to stop and have his picture taken with several supporters of the Championship club. Nice touch."

We're all going to Wembley

BBC

Reading fans have been brightening up the cold concrete of Wembley Way from around midday, why make the short journey from London's commuter belt late in the day when you can do it straight after breakfast eh? This is a special day after all.

Our reporter Nabil Hassan is there chatting to many of them and we will bring you some tales from Wembley Way shortly.

Reading's cup magic man

Getty Images

Go on then, let's trot out the 'magic of the cup' cliché for the first time today (I'll wait at least five minutes before going there again).

One man who has been Reading's very own Paul Daniels (Dynamo if you're not yet 25 years of age) in the cup this year is Hal Robson-Kanu.

The 25-year-old has scored three goals in his last four FA Cup appearances this season, despite only scoring one league goal in 28 games.

'Why not? Shocks can happen'

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy

Football Focus

BBC

"Reading have got good pace on the counter, which could work well for them as of course we think Arsenal will dominate possession. In midfield Nathaniel Chalobah has looked good, he's a good passer of the ball, but ultimately the question will be whether Reading can get enough of the ball to cause problems. On a hot afternoon they don't want to be chasing all day.

"But they have got a great opportunity, and why not? Shocks can happen."

Team news

Nabil Hassan

BBC Sport at Wembley

"Russian forward Pavel Pogrebnyak has passed a fitness test on his injured calf and starts up front for Reading. Club captain Jem Karacan is on the bench so central defender Alex Pearce takes the armband. He is joined on the bench by veteran striker Yakubu. There's plenty of pace in the Royals midfield with Garath McCleary also included."

PA

Breaking team news - Szczesny in goal

And what better way to start than with some breaking team news, Jack Wilshere is back on the bench for Arsenal having not played since 22 November. Wojciech Szczesny is in goal as his run in cup games continues and Mathieu Debuchy is in at right-back, his first appearance since 11 January.

Arsenal: Szczesny, Debuchy, Gibbs, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Ozil, Ramsey, Alexis, Cazorla, Welbeck, Coquelin.

Reading: Federici, Gunter, Pearce, Pogrebnyak, Robson-Kanu, Obita, Chalobah, McCleary, Mackie, Williams, Hector.

Welcome to FA Cup live...

Welcome to FA Cup semi-final day one of two. It's Wembley, it's a team given little hope against the side who lifted this trophy last season.

Reading are the David, Arsenal the Goliath, but this competition loves nothing more than splattering egg on the face of those who should ordinarily have things their way.

We have colour from Wembley way coming up, team news, stats, a social media debate, images, hopefully goals and who knows, maybe even a giant killing.

No chance? Think again...

"The team with the best players don't always win a semi-final. It's a one-off. Sometimes character, determination, guts and passion are more important than skill." - Crystal Palace manager Steve Coppell after his side rumbled Liverpool at this stage in 1990.

An April jaunt to the final

Getty Images

There's a Rolls Royce on its way to a spring meeting where only the best are welcome.

The roof is down, it shimmers, gleams and oozes quality, it's been looking immaculate since winter disappeared.

It's driver, an aristocrat in his field, moves along in his slick white shirt, he has the cut of a man of experience, he's worked for days like this.

But something is in his way.

A pot hole. A nuisance battered by a winter spent in rugged surroundings stubbornly sits in the middle of the road.

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