With a reported 52,000 tickets already sold, this Saturday’s Wembley final is expected to attract a record crowd for the women’s competition.
And for Houghton, the occasion is proof of the progress the game has made in recent years.
She said: “To hear it could be a record-breaking crowd, you want to play in those games.
“To be able to play in FA Cup finals at Wembley is a dream come true. For women’s football in this country it’s great.”
Nonetheless, while the Blues defender was excited by the news, she challenged her teammates to make the most of the opportunity to play in front of what could be a bumper attendance.
“We want to sustain those crowds, but to be getting 50,000 for a final shows how much progression there’s been.
“We need to be the best we can be and get people through those gates.”
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Nick Cushing’s side won the FA Cup back in 2017 and beating West Ham in this year’s final would complete a domestic double following February’s Continental Cup victory.
The Blues skipper admitted she feels calmer than she did two years ago going into this season’s showpiece but is still excited by the prospect of further silverware.
She said: “Some players haven’t played in a final – Lauren Hemp hasn’t even been to Wembley!
“These occasions don’t come often, and I always think take the opportunity when it comes.”
You can watch Steph and her teammates in the Women’s FA Cup Final this Saturday at Wembley. Buy your tickets via this link.
