Day in history: Michael Owen's brace secures Liverpool's FA Cup final triumph in 2000/01

May 12 holds a special place in the annals of English football. Here's why.

Details: On May 12, 2001, Liverpool defeated Arsenal 2-1 in the FA Cup final held at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, with 72,500 fans in attendance. The Reds' victory was sealed by their legendary striker Michael Owen, who netted a dramatic late brace.

The match remained goalless until the 72nd minute, when Fredrik Ljungberg put Arsenal ahead. The Londoners dominated possession and carved out more chances: Thierry Henry squandered a golden opportunity that was denied by Liverpool keeper Sander Westerveld, while another shot was cleared off the line by defender Sami Hyypiä.

In the 83rd minute, Owen drew Liverpool level, pouncing first on a loose ball inside the box. Then, in the 88th minute, he clinched the winner: after a long pass from Patrik Berger, Michael outpaced defender Lee Dixon and coolly slotted past David Seaman.

The contest ended 2-1 — Liverpool lifted their sixth FA Cup. This triumph was part of their famous treble in the 2000/01 season, which also included victories in the League Cup and the UEFA Cup.

Reminder: In the current 2024/25 FA Cup campaign, Arsenal were knocked out as early as the third round after a draw with Manchester United — marking their second consecutive early exit at this stage, a first since the 1995/96 season. Meanwhile, Liverpool suffered a shock defeat in the fourth round to Championship side Plymouth.