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City Win FA Cup! Haaland’s Strike Beats Chelsea in Wembley Thriller

  • Writer: Farabin TV Sport
    Farabin TV Sport
  • May 16
  • 2 min read
Chelsea 0-1 Manchester City
Chelsea 0-1 Manchester City

Chelsea 0-1 Manchester City

FA Cup Final 2025/26

Saturday, 16 May 2026 – Wembley Stadium, London


Manchester City claimed their eighth FA Cup title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Chelsea in a tense and high-quality final at Wembley Stadium. Erling Haaland’s clinical second-half strike proved to be the difference as Pep Guardiola’s side completed the domestic double after already winning the Premier League.

The 2026 FA Cup Final was a classic contest between two of England’s biggest clubs. Chelsea, under new manager Enzo Maresca, started brightly and created several dangerous chances in the first half. City, however, showed their champion mentality and gradually took control of the match, eventually breaking Chelsea’s resistance in the second half.


Match Timeline & Goal Scorers

67' – Chelsea 0-1 Manchester City Erling Haaland scored the only goal of the game with a trademark clinical finish. Kevin De Bruyne delivered a perfectly weighted through ball, and Haaland raced clear of the Chelsea defence before slotting the ball low past goalkeeper Robert Sánchez. It was Haaland’s 28th goal of the season and his second in an FA Cup Final.

Despite late pressure from Chelsea, including strong appeals for a penalty and several dangerous crosses, City’s defence — led by Rúben Dias and John Stones — stood firm. Ederson made two crucial saves in the closing stages to preserve the clean sheet.


Tactical Analysis & Key Performances

Manchester City’s Control: Pep Guardiola once again showed his tactical mastery. After a relatively even first half, City adjusted their pressing and midfield shape, dominating the second half. Kevin De Bruyne was outstanding in creating chances, while Rodri completely controlled the centre of the pitch. The City attack, despite missing some creativity at times, remained clinical when the opportunity arose.

Chelsea’s Fight: Enzo Maresca’s team played with great intensity and organisation. They pressed high and created good opportunities through Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson. However, they lacked the final clinical touch in front of goal. The defence, particularly Levi Colwill and Reece James, performed well but were eventually undone by Haaland’s movement and quality.


Standout Players:

  • Erling Haaland (Manchester City) – Match-winner with a clinical finish and constant threat.

  • Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City) – Delivered the decisive assist and dictated play.

  • Rodri (Manchester City) – Dominated the midfield battle.

  • Cole Palmer (Chelsea) – Chelsea’s brightest player, created several chances.

  • Ederson (Manchester City) – Made vital late saves to secure the clean sheet.


What This Result Means

For Manchester City, this victory completes a domestic double (Premier League + FA Cup) and marks another successful season under Pep Guardiola. It also strengthens their confidence ahead of next season’s Champions League campaign.

For Chelsea, despite the defeat, reaching the FA Cup Final shows clear progress under Maresca. They remain in a strong position to finish in the top four of the Premier League and will now focus on securing Champions League football for next season.


The 2026 FA Cup Final will be remembered as a tight, tactical battle decided by one moment of brilliance from Erling Haaland. Manchester City once again proved why they remain one of the best teams in Europe.


By Reza Mirzadegan

Published on May 16, 2026

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