Here, PA Sport looks at the key battles which could decide the destination of the famous trophy:

SOL CAMPBELL v JIMMY FLOYD HASSELBAINK

Since his move to the south coast at the beginning of last season, Campbell has re-established himself as one of the country's finest centre-backs. His formidable partnership with Sylvain Distin at the heart of Pompey's defence has proved to be the bedrock of a successful season.

Veteran target man Hasselbaink has proved class is permanent since his summer move from Charlton. The 36-year-old former Chelsea striker has been in barnstorming form of late, chipping in with some of his trademark goals. He and Campbell have crossed swords many times before and the latter will have to be on his mettle to stop Hasselbaink claiming the FA Cup winner's medal that has so far eluded him.

LASSANA DIARRA v AARON RAMSEY

After frustrating spells at Chelsea and Arsenal, Diarra has finally found regular first-team football at Portsmouth. The classy holding midfielder has shown his quality for Harry Redknapp's side and is set to be a key member of France'sEuro 2008 squad. He is also something of a talismanic figure having yet to lose any cup match he has played since moving to England almost three years ago.

Seventeen-year-old prodigy Ramsey has earned rave reviews during his debut season and has attracted admiring glances from a clutch of Premier League managers. Comfortable and assured in possession, the skilful Wales Under-21 international has the ability to unlock defences with a single pass. Diarra might need a performance reminiscent of his idol Claude Makelele to shackle an exceptional talent who is unlikely to be overawed by the occasion.

KANU v ROGER JOHNSON

Kanu's scrambled winner against former club West Brom booked Portsmouth's place in the final and with Jermain Defoe cup-tied, the languid Nigerian is set to lead the line once more. The 31-year-old can count an Olympic gold medal and a Champions League title among his honours and will be confident of adding a third FA Cup triumph to an already-decorated career.

Johnson is well equipped to deal with the persistent, if unpredictable, physical threat posed by Kanu. He played a vital part in the Bluebirds' run to Wembley, scoring the second goal in the 2-0 quarter-final victory over Middlesbrough. He is a threat at set plays and could be vital in a tight final.