The BBC has had the most-watched duel since football’s return since Sky Return and BT Sport

The BBC has secured rights against rivals Sky Sports and BT Sport by winning the most watched game since football’s return to our screens this month.

The quarter-final win in the Manchester United FA Cup against Norwich on Saturday night reached an impressive high of 6.4 million viewers who watched the clash.

And they were certainly invited to an evening of entertainment when Harry Maguire’s last-minute extra-time strike triggered a breathtaking semi-final showdown with tough rival Chelsea.

The 6.4 million figure included 1.7 million BBC online stream requests, whereby chair fans could watch the cup showdown free of charge via their iPlayer.

The total usurped the Merseyside derby on June 21, which was seen by 5.5 million British viewers and set a new Premier League record.

This collision was broadcast on Sky Sports and Pick TV on free-to-air television.

The day after United’s win, the BBC televised Manchester City’s FA Cup win over Newcastle, which reached a total of 5.1 million viewers.

Holders City will play Arsenal in the FA Cup semi-finals after defeating Newcastle in St. James’ Park.

City, who defeated Watford 6-0 in last year’s final, were kept away by arch-rivals Manchester United, who were drawn against Chelsea.

Both semi-finals will be held in Wembley on the weekend of July 18-19. The finale is scheduled for Saturday August 1st at the same location.

BBC expert Alan Shearer led the draw at halftime in the round of 16 between Newcastle and City at St. James’ Park, which visitors won 2-0 each half with a goal from Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling.

It was the first Covid-safe draw in the FA Cup where only Shearer – watched by Gary Lineker – brought the teams together instead of the usual two guests.

These games are expected to grab the BBC’s youngest viewers.