Manchester City added another major trophy to their 2025/26 campaign after defeating Chelsea 1-0 in the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium.

A moment of brilliance from Antoine Semenyo proved decisive as Pep Guardiola’s side lifted the FA Cup for the first time since 2023, having appeared in the two finals that followed without reclaiming the trophy.

The victory also means Manchester City have now won both domestic cup competitions this season, having already secured the EFL Cup. With two trophies in the bag, the Cityzens will now shift focus to the Premier League, where they are expected to push Arsenal hard in the race for the title.

Semenyo’s Magic Moment Wins the FA Cup for Manchester City

Manchester City controlled large spells of the opening exchanges, moving the ball with their usual patience and precision. Semenyo was lively from the start, seeing two early efforts blocked as City searched for a breakthrough.

Omar Marmoush also tried to make an impact in the box, while Rodri had a headed effort blocked by João Pedro.

Despite their dominance in possession, Manchester City struggled to truly test Robert Sánchez in the Chelsea goal during the early stages.

Chelsea had a rare opening through João Pedro, but he was well handled by Abdukodir Khusanov before slipping as he attempted a shot, allowing James Trafford to gather comfortably.

Haaland Denied by Offside Call

Manchester City thought they had taken the lead in the 27th minute when Matheus Nunes squared the ball for Erling Haaland to tap home.

However, the goal was ruled out after Nunes was adjudged to have strayed offside before receiving Semenyo’s pass.

Semenyo later created space brilliantly by jinking inside Marc Cucurella, but his wild effort flew badly off target. Chelsea then enjoyed a brief spell of control, though they failed to trouble Trafford.

Haaland eventually forced the first major save of the final shortly before halftime, with Sánchez reacting sharply to turn his first-time effort behind.

Guardiola’s Changes Help City Take Control

Pep Guardiola introduced Rayan Cherki at the restart, and the France international quickly influenced the game.

Within two minutes of the second half, Cherki released Nico O’Reilly down the flank, whose cross found Semenyo, but the Ghanaian headed over.

Chelsea gradually grew into the contest. Rodri was forced to clear Moisés Caicedo’s header after Trafford conceded a corner, while Wesley Fofana failed to direct Reece James’ delivery goalward.

But in the 72nd minute, Wembley erupted in sky blue.

Haaland pulled the ball back into the area, and Semenyo produced an intelligent flick that crept inside the far post to give Manchester City a priceless 1-0 lead.

Chelsea Fall Short Again in FA Cup Final

Chelsea pushed for an immediate response, with Enzo Fernández coming agonisingly close to equalising.

However, Manchester City remained dangerous on the counter, with Sánchez denying both Nunes and Cherki as Guardiola’s men looked to kill the game.

In the end, City held firm to secure their eighth FA Cup title and condemn Chelsea to a fourth consecutive defeat in FA Cup finals.

For Guardiola, this was another reminder of Manchester City’s ability to deliver in decisive moments, even when they are not at their fluent best.

Manchester City Complete Domestic Cup Double and Turn Attention to Arsenal Chase

The FA Cup success adds to Manchester City’s EFL Cup triumph earlier in the season, giving the club a domestic cup double and huge momentum heading into the final stretch of the Premier League campaign.

With Arsenal still leading the way in the EPL title race, Manchester City will now look to chase down the Gunners and keep alive their hopes of completing a remarkable domestic treble.

City’s squad depth, experience, and winning mentality could prove decisive as the season reaches its most important stage.

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