Chelsea advances to FA Cup final (Image: Getty)
Chelsea, without a manager, defeated Leeds United 1-0 in the FA Cup semi-final and will face Manchester City in the final at Wembley three weeks later. It is the 17th time Chelsea have reached the final of the competition, with Callum MacFarlane set to reunite with Pep Guardiola in next month’s marquee match.
Chelsea’s players, buoyed by their recent managerial change, attacked from the start and were rewarded for their efforts midway through the first half. Pedro Neto’s cross was deflected into the penalty area by Enzo Fernandes. The Argentine has been heavily linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge in recent days. Chelsea had two chances to score before the break, but despite only managing one goal, it was a much improved performance from Tuesday night.
Leeds improved after the restart with Daniel Farke making some changes during the break. Roberto Sanchez was brought on early in the second half and the goalkeeper made a flying save on the right flank. Chelsea’s attacking half did not perform as well in the second period, with most of the goalmouth action taking place at the other end. After Chelsea defeated Leeds in the FA Cup semi-final, Express Sport published their player ratings.
Although nowhere near as fully tested as Leeds had hoped, the Frenchman who was called up made some amazing saves. The strong right-hander denied Joe Rodon an attack from his best area at 25 yards.
There were some very promising moments going forward, but from a defensive standpoint it was lacking at times.
There were times when they were reversed in the second half, but they weren’t completely comfortable against Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Leeds had a great chance in the first half, but Sanchez had to stop him again.
His centre-back partner is in a similar situation. The pair will need to get even better (if they start) against City in the final.
It was too easily crushed for the Calvert-Lewin hair-pulling incident. After that, he didn’t really get into the game, and sometimes showed instability.
For Belgians, it’s the age-old question of “what if?” He was a major contributor to Chelsea’s midfield and was on the pitch for around 65 minutes, helping the two-time European champions take control of the game. If he can maintain consistent fitness, it could be a big boost for the run-in.
Both halves showed the duality of his game. The first 45 minutes were spent holding the ball and setting the tempo, and the remaining 45 minutes were spent breaking up play and stopping attacks.
Enzo Fernandes’ goal gave Chelsea the lead in the first half. (Image: Getty)
A proper midfielder’s performance, and dare I say it, something reminiscent of Frank Lampard? The World Cup winner appeared in both boxes, looking to score what would prove to be the decisive winning goal.
He provided a timely assist for the opening goal and deserves a lot of praise for his accomplishment. He could have used more intimidation at times, but it was certainly a good price considering his reputation.
Caused all sorts of problems for Leeds’ centre-backs with his movement. Sometimes it would fall deep, sometimes it would miss my shoulder. It has been a bright spot during a difficult season for the West Londoners.
Especially the first half provided a lot of industry on the left side. He fired two attractive balls across the box that should have been scored by one of his team-mates. Despite his critics throughout this season, the Argentine can be proud of his performances.
He replaced Romeo Lavia and continued to help Chelsea establish midfield dominance.
He came off the bench to try to save Chelsea the game, but he failed to set the world on fire.
He came on as a substitute in the 98th minute of the match.
