LONDON (AP) – Leeds United advanced to the FA Cup semifinals for the first time since 1987 after defeating West Ham United in a penalty shootout following a dramatic match that saw Leeds squander a two-goal lead.
In a thrilling encounter at London Stadium, West Ham equalized with two late goals in injury time, forcing the match into extra time, where no additional goals were scored. Leeds ultimately triumphed 4-2 in the shootout.
Match Highlights
Leeds initially took control of the match with goals from Ao Tanaka and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, which put them ahead 2-0. However, West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes and Axel Disasi responded with goals in the 93rd and 96th minutes, respectively, leveling the score at 2-2.
During extra time, West Ham appeared to dominate the play, having two goals disallowed for offside. The match featured a standout performance from West Ham debutant Finlay Herrick, who saved a penalty from Leeds’ Joel Piroe in the shootout.
FA Cup Semifinal Matchup
Following their victory, Leeds will face Chelsea in the semifinals, a rematch of the 1970 FA Cup final, which Chelsea won after a replay. The other semifinal will see Manchester City take on second-tier Southampton, with all matches scheduled for April 25-26 at Wembley Stadium.
The draw for the semifinals took place immediately after Leeds’ win, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the tournament.