Chelsea defeated Leeds United 1-0 in the 2025/26 FA Cup semi-final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, April 26, securing their place in the final against Manchester City on May 16. Enzo Fernandez scored the only goal with a first-half header from Pedro Neto's cross, as interim manager Calum McFarlane ended a three-game losing streak.
Calum McFarlane took charge for his second spell as Chelsea's interim boss after Liam Rosenior's sacking on Wednesday following a 3-0 loss to Brighton—Chelsea's third straight defeat since their 7-0 quarter-final thrashing of Port Vale. Leeds arrived unbeaten in seven matches, but Chelsea controlled the game by bypassing their high press with longer balls.
Fernandez, previously suspended by Rosenior for media comments, showed sharp positioning to head home Pedro Neto's cross. McFarlane called the emotion 'relief' to TNT Sports: 'We were confident... but you never know.' He praised the tactical shift: 'Leeds are at their most dangerous when we have deep possession... so we went longer,' and lauded Fernandez's 'brilliant' positioning.
Leeds improved after halftime, generating more expected goals, shots, and big chances but rarely threatening Robert Sanchez. Manager Daniel Farke admitted nerves played a role in missing a first final since 1973: 'It was a very tight game... Perhaps the lads were a bit nervous.' He congratulated Chelsea's defensive effort.
Manchester City advanced past Southampton in the other semi-final, setting up the showpiece on May 16.
