Chelsea Edges Past Leeds to Secure FA Cup Final Spot

Chelsea defeated Leeds United 1-0 at Wembley Stadium to reach the FA Cup final for the 2025-26 season. Enzo Fernandez's header in the first half secured the victory. Despite Leeds' improved second-half performance, Chelsea's defense held strong. They will face Manchester City in the final.

Chelsea secured a place in the FA Cup 2025-26 final with a narrow 1-0 victory over Leeds United at Wembley Stadium on Sunday. An early header by Enzo Fernandez was decisive in front of a packed stadium, helping Chelsea overcome recent challenges after the sacking of head coach Liam Rosenior.

From the beginning, Chelsea appeared more assertive, pressing high and generating several chances. Leeds, however, threatened with a notable attempt from Brenden Aaronson, which was expertly saved by Chelsea's goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. The breakthrough came in the 23rd minute, with a well-executed play initiated by a Leeds midfield error, culminating in Pedro Neto's precise cross that found Fernandez, who delivered a flawless header.

Throughout the first half, Chelsea remained the more menacing team and nearly doubled their lead with a close strike from Joao Pedro. The second half saw Leeds mounting a comeback, with substitute Anton Stach challenging Sanchez. Despite Leeds' revived efforts, Chelsea's defense held steady, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin's late attempts failed to alter the scoreline, ensuring Chelsea's slot in the final against Manchester City.