Chelsea secured a late victory against Championship side Leeds United, booking their spot in the FA Cup last eight.
Despite a lackluster performance on home turf, the Blues kept their hopes for silverware alive by scoring in the 90th minute, setting up a sixth-round clash at home against Leicester City.
In the early minutes, Leeds took the lead as Archie Gray capitalized on a poor pass from Axel Disasi, finding Mateo Joseph, who calmly slotted past Robert Sanchez.
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Chelsea responded 15 minutes later, with Moises Caicedo’s clever pass setting up Nicolas Jackson for an equalizing goal from close range.
Before halftime, the hosts took the lead when Noni Madueke carried the ball through midfield, playing it wide to Malo Gusto, who then assisted Raheem Sterling. Sterling, in turn, set up Mykhailo Mudryk for an easy finish.
Leeds had an opportunity to level soon after, but Dan James’ half-volley from a well-executed free-kick routine sailed over the bar.
After the break, Leeds deservedly equalized when Gray dribbled out of trouble, and Ethan Ampadu’s pass found Jaidon Anthony, who delivered a precise cross for Joseph to nod in.
With the match heading into added time, Chelsea secured the win as Enzo Fernandez set up Conor Gallagher, who lifted his shot over Meslier, sending the Blues into the sixth round.