Enzo Fernández’s first-half header secured a 1–0 victory for Chelsea over Leeds United, sending them into an FA Cup final clash with Manchester City.
Match Report
Unlike City’s dramatic win against Southampton on Saturday, the second semi-final at Wembley had a calmer tempo.
Fernández’s 23rd-minute header ultimately made the difference, as the Blues—guided by interim manager Calum McFarlane after Liam Rosenior’s sacking—confirmed their spot in the May 16 final.
The Argentine struck shortly after João Pedro had hit the woodwork, with Chelsea looking stronger during the opening half.
Leeds improved after the break, with Anton Stach’s introduction shifting the balance. Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who had earlier escaped a VAR review for a possible hair pull, directed a header straight at Robert Sánchez.
Sánchez remained solid, denying both Brenden Aaronson and Stach, while Leeds generated chances worth 0.89 expected goals but failed to mount a successful comeback.
Data Debrief: Enzo’s lucky 13
Fernández, who had been suspended for two matches by Rosenior following remarks about a possible Chelsea departure, emerged as the standout figure at Wembley.
The vice-captain has now netted 13 goals across all competitions this season. Only Morgan Gibbs-White, with 16, has scored more among Premier League midfielders in 2025–26.
In an impressive first-half showing, Fernández led in passes completed in the opposition half (19), registered the most shots on target (two), shared the lead for chances created (two), and drew the most fouls (three).
He converted one of his two shots on target, recording 0.15 expected goals—nearly half of Chelsea’s total of 0.34.
Chelsea have now won all seven of their FA Cup meetings with Leeds and have advanced from 10 of their last 12 semi-finals in the competition.
