By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, April 5 ,2026 - Leeds United F.C. booked their place in the FA Cup semi-finals in dramatic fashion after defeating West Ham United F.C. on penalties following a thrilling 2–2 draw.
The quarter-final clash, played at the London Stadium, delivered everything fans expect from the FA Cup, drama, late goals, and high-stakes tension. Leeds appeared to be in full control for much of the match, racing into a two-goal lead thanks to strikes from Ao Tanaka and a penalty converted by Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
At that point, Leeds looked set for a comfortable passage into the semi-finals. However, football had other plans.
Just when the game seemed beyond reach, West Ham produced a stunning late comeback. Goals from Mateus Fernandes and Axel Disasi deep into stoppage time turned the match on its head, leveling the score at 2–2 and sending the tie into extra time.
The dramatic turnaround stunned Leeds and reignited the home crowd, shifting momentum sharply in West Ham’s favor. Despite the emotional surge, neither side could find a decisive goal during extra time, setting the stage for a penalty shootout.
In the end, it was Leeds goalkeeper Lucas Perri who proved to be the difference-maker. The Brazilian shot-stopper delivered a composed and heroic performance, making crucial saves both during the match and in the shootout.
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West Ham’s hopes took a further hit when their goalkeeper Alphonse Areola was forced off injured just minutes before the shootout, leading to a debut appearance for young Finlay Herrick under immense pressure.
Despite Herrick managing to get a hand to one effort, Leeds held their nerve from the spot. Pascal Struijk converted the decisive penalty, sealing a 4–2 shootout victory and sparking wild celebrations among the traveling supporters.
The win marks Leeds’ first FA Cup semi-final appearance since 1987, underlining the significance of this achievement for the club.
It also continues a remarkable cup run defined by resilience, with Leeds having already survived multiple penalty shootouts earlier in the competition.