Chelsea F.C. booked their place in the FA Cup final after a narrow 1–0 victory over Leeds United F.C. at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, thanks to an early header from Enzo Fernández.
The decisive moment came in the 23rd minute when Fernández rose highest to meet Pedro Neto’s cross, powering a header past Leeds goalkeeper Lucas Perri to give Chelsea the lead in a tightly contested semi-final.
Leeds began brightly and carved out the first clear chance of the game. Brenden Aaronson latched onto a flick-on from Dominic Calvert-Lewin, but Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez produced a sharp save with his legs to keep the score level.
Chelsea gradually grew into the match and came close to extending their advantage before halftime when João Pedro struck the post after a swift attacking move.
Despite Leeds pushing for an equaliser in the second half, Chelsea’s defence held firm under pressure, with Sánchez and the backline making crucial interventions to preserve the lead.
The result continues Chelsea’s strong FA Cup run and comes amid recent managerial changes at the club following the dismissal of Liam Rosenior. Calum McFarlane has since been appointed interim manager and is expected to remain in charge until the end of the season.
For Leeds, the defeat ends their hopes of reaching their first FA Cup final since 1973, when they finished as runners-up.
Chelsea will now face Manchester City F.C. in the FA Cup final scheduled for Saturday, May 16, in what promises to be a high-stakes showdown between two of England’s top sides.
