The FA Cup semi-final draw has officially been confirmed, setting up two intriguing clashes as the road to Wembley intensifies. Following a dramatic round of quarter-final fixtures, the final four teams now know exactly what stands between them and a place in the 2026 final.
With dominant wins, shocking upsets, and a penalty shootout thriller shaping the last eight, this year’s FA Cup is building towards a compelling conclusion.
FA Cup Semi-Final Fixtures Confirmed
The draw has produced two exciting ties that blend Premier League strength with Championship resilience.
Chelsea will face Leeds United in what promises to be a fiercely contested encounter. Meanwhile, Manchester City will take on Southampton, with Pep Guardiola’s side aiming to keep their remarkable dominance in the competition in recent years going.
Both matches are scheduled to take place at Wembley Stadium over the weekend of April 25–26, with kickoff times expected to be announced soon.
FA CUP: FA Cup Results: Man City 4-0 Liverpool, Hat-Trick Hero Haaland Powers Semi-Final Surge
How the Final Four Reached Wembley
Manchester City were the first to book their place in the semi-finals after a ruthless 4-0 demolition of Liverpool. A stunning hat-trick from Erling Haaland underlined City’s attacking power and reinforced their status as tournament favourites.
Chelsea followed with an even more emphatic display, thrashing Port Vale 7-0 at Stamford Bridge. The Blues delivered a statement performance that showcased both their depth and attacking quality.
The biggest shock of the round came as Southampton knocked out Arsenal, proving once again why the FA Cup remains football’s most unpredictable competition.
Meanwhile, Leeds United secured their place at Wembley after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over West Ham United. The match ended 2-2 before Leeds held their nerve to progress, marking their first semi-final appearance in nearly four decades.
Storylines to Watch Ahead of Wembley
The semi-final between Chelsea and Leeds carries historical weight. Their meeting will revive memories of classic encounters, including the iconic 1970 FA Cup final. With both clubs eager to return to the top, this tie promises intensity and edge.
On the other side, Manchester City enter their clash with Southampton as clear favourites, but the Saints have already proven their ability to upset elite opposition. Having eliminated Arsenal, they will approach the game with confidence and nothing to lose.
City, however, are chasing yet another domestic trophy and will be determined to extend their record of consecutive semi-final appearances under Pep Guardiola.
When Is the FA Cup Final?
The winners of both semi-finals will advance to the 2026 FA Cup final, scheduled to take place at Wembley Stadium on May 16.
With a mix of elite contenders and a determined underdog still in the competition, the stage is perfectly set for a memorable conclusion to this year’s FA Cup.
Conclusion
The FA Cup semi-final draw has delivered a perfect blend of history, rivalry, and unpredictability. As Manchester City, Chelsea, Leeds United, and Southampton prepare for Wembley, the dream of lifting one of football’s most prestigious trophies moves one step closer.
With form, momentum, and belief all playing crucial roles, the semi-finals promise high drama and defining moments in the race for FA Cup glory.
