Leeds United Ends 39-Year FA Cup Wait with West Ham Win

Leeds United achieved a significant milestone by reaching the FA Cup semi-finals for the first time in 39 years, defeating West Ham United in a thrilling penalty shootout on Sunday. The match, held at the London Stadium, saw Leeds take a 2-0 lead with goals from Ao Tanaka in the first half and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who converted a penalty in the second half.

However, West Ham rallied late, with Mateu Fernand scoring in stoppage time and Axel Disasi equalizing, forcing the match into extra time. In the penalty shootout, Leeds goalkeeper Luca Perri became the hero, saving Jarrod Bowen's attempt.

Leeds won the shootout 4-2, with successful penalties from Brenden Aaronson, Wilfried Gnonto, and Pascal Struijk. This victory follows their fourth-round success against Birmingham and sets them up for a semi-final clash against Chelsea at Wembley later in April.

Leeds last reached the FA Cup semi-finals in 1987 and last won at Wembley in 1992.