Chelsea to face Leeds United in FA Cup semifinals
Chelsea will face Leeds United in the FA Cup semi-finals following the latest draw, setting up a clash rich in history and intrigue.
Chelsea secured their place in the last four with a dominant 7-0 victory over Port Vale, while Leeds advanced after a dramatic penalty shootout win against West Ham United.
Chelsea cruise into the last four
The Blues delivered one of the most emphatic performances of the quarter-final stage. Jorrel Hato set the tone with an early opener, before Joao Pedro and a defensive error extended the lead before half-time.
Chelsea maintained their intensity after the break, with Tosin Adarabioyo, Andrey Santos and Estevao Willian all getting on the scoresheet.
Substitute Alejandro Garnacho completed the rout to underline Chelsea’s attacking depth.
Leeds edge past West Ham in thriller
Leeds booked their place in the semi-finals after a tense encounter with West Ham ended 2-2 before being decided on penalties.
The victory marks a significant milestone for Leeds, who reach the FA Cup semi-finals for the first time since 1987.
A rivalry renewed
This semi-final meeting revives one of English football’s most iconic rivalries. Chelsea and Leeds famously met in the 1970 FA Cup Final, a fiercely contested clash eventually won by Chelsea after a replay at Old Trafford.
More recently, Chelsea edged a dramatic 3-2 victory in their last FA Cup meeting, highlighting the competitive nature of this fixture.
Wembley awaits
The semi-final ties are scheduled to take place on the weekend of 25–26 April 2026 at Wembley Stadium, with a place in the final at stake.
Chelsea, eight-time FA Cup winners, will be aiming to continue their strong cup form, while Leeds will look to extend their impressive run and chase a historic return to the final.
Fixture implications
Chelsea’s progression means their scheduled Premier League clash with Brighton & Hove Albion will be rearranged to midweek, with confirmation expected soon.
The bigger picture
For Chelsea, this represents another opportunity to secure silverware in what has been an inconsistent season. For Leeds, it is a chance to write a new chapter in the club’s history.
With both teams carrying momentum into Wembley, the stage is set for a high-stakes encounter.
SportsLigue
