Leeds United booked their place in the FA Cup semi-finals after defeating West Ham United 4-2 on penalties following a dramatic 2-2 draw at the London Stadium.
The thrilling encounter saw late drama, a stunning West Ham comeback, and heroic goalkeeping from Lucas Perri, as Leeds held their nerve in the shootout to secure a Wembley clash with Chelsea.
Leeds in control before late chaos
Leeds dominated much of the match and took a deserved lead in the 26th minute through Ao Tanaka, who finished a well-worked move.
Their advantage was doubled in the second half when Dominic Calvert-Lewin calmly converted a penalty, putting Daniel Farke’s side firmly in control.
At 2-0, Leeds appeared on course to reach their first FA Cup semi-final since 1987.
West Ham’s dramatic comeback
However, the game turned in extraordinary fashion during stoppage time.
Mateus Fernandes pulled one back after Jarrod Bowen’s effort hit the post, before Axel Disasi sensationally equalised just minutes later to force extra time.
The late goals stunned Leeds and reignited the home crowd, setting up a tense finish.
Penalty shootout heroics
With neither side able to find a winner in extra time, the match went to penalties.
Leeds goalkeeper Lucas Perri proved decisive, producing crucial saves to shift momentum in his side’s favour.
Despite an early miss from Joël Piroe, Leeds recovered strongly, and Pascal Struijk converted the decisive spot-kick to seal a 4-2 shootout victory.
Wembley awaits
The result sends Leeds into the FA Cup semi-finals, where they will face Chelsea in a historic tie that revives memories of past encounters between the clubs.
For West Ham, the defeat is a bitter blow after their spirited comeback, while concerns remain over their league form as they continue to battle near the relegation zone.
A night to remember
This unforgettable cup tie had everything—goals, controversy, missed chances, and late drama—highlighting why the FA Cup remains one of football’s most cherished competitions.
Leeds, however, are the side celebrating, keeping their hopes alive of lifting the trophy for the first time since 1972.
Reference:
Source: The Guardian, “Leeds hold nerve to win shootout after West Ham’s dramatic fightback”, April 2026.
