Waterford FC will face Bohemians in the FAI Cup semi-final after the draw was made on 6 September 2026. The Blues will travel to Dalymount Park for the tie, scheduled for the weekend of 9-11 October, as reported by RTÉ Sport.
This fixture pits two of the Premier Division's most in-form teams against each other. Waterford are currently on an 11-game unbeaten streak, a run that includes a convincing 3-0 win over Sligo Rovers just three days ago. Their recent form is formidable, with four wins and a draw from their last five league matches. You can track their progress in the standings.
What is Waterford's recent form?
Waterford's momentum is undeniable. Their 3-0 victory against Sligo Rovers on 4 September was their fourth consecutive win. This strong run has lifted them to 8th place in the Premier Division table, with 32 points from 29 games. They have scored 39 goals this season while conceding 48. The team's next challenge is a league match at home to Dundalk on 11 September, a fixture you can find on our fixtures page.
Their current form makes them a dangerous opponent for any side in the cup. The last time Waterford lifted the FAI Cup was back in 1980, a fact that adds extra weight to their current campaign.
Why is this Dalymount Park game significant?
The semi-final at Dalymount Park will be the last FAI Cup match played at the famous Dublin venue before major renovation works begin this winter. This adds a layer of history to the occasion for both clubs. Bohemians will be desperate to mark the end of an era with a win and a place in the final.
Bohs have their own cup history to contend with. They have not won the competition since 2008 and have suffered recent final defeats to St Patrick's Athletic in both 2021 and 2023. The pressure to finally get over the line will be immense for the Gypsies, setting up a classic cup clash of ambition versus momentum.
Who else reached the FAI Cup semi-finals?
The other semi-final will see Derry City host Galway United. Derry secured their place with a 4-2 home victory over Dundalk at the Brandywell. Galway United kept their own quest alive by winning away to Drogheda United. Galway are aiming to win the FAI Cup for the first time since 1991.
This means both semi-finals feature a team from outside Dublin, with Waterford and Galway representing strong challenges to the traditional capital clubs. The draw ensures at least one non-Dublin club will reach the Aviva Stadium final.
What did pundits say about the draw?
Reaction to the draw was captured by RTÉ Sport pundits Chris Shields and Gareth McGlynn. The pair discussed the fixtures, which are set for 9, 10 or 11 October. Their analysis highlighted the intriguing form battle between Bohemians and a Waterford side that has become very difficult to beat. The full squad details for this important period are available on our squad page.
With the semi-final date now set, Waterford can focus on maintaining their league form before switching attention to the cup. Their next match is at home to Dundalk on 11 September.
