Chelsea FC edged into the FA Cup final with a narrow 1–0 victory over Leeds United at Wembley, but the performance raised more questions than answers about a side still battling instability behind the scenes.

Enzo Fernández’s first-half header proved decisive, as the midfielder capitalised on Pedro Neto’s delivery in the 23rd minute, in what was a scrappy and tension-filled semi-final defined more by missed chances than attacking brilliance.

Leeds arguably started brighter, carving out the first real opportunity when Brenden Aaronson latched onto Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s flick-on, only to be denied by a crucial save from Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez, whose intervention prevented an early collapse.

Chelsea responded but failed to fully assert dominance, with João Pedro striking the foot of the post before the interval, highlighting a recurring issue of wastefulness in front of goal despite their eventual victory.

The match also unfolded under the shadow of managerial uncertainty, following the dismissal of Liam Rosenior, with interim boss Calum McFarlane now tasked with steering a fragile squad through to the final amid lingering doubts about long-term direction.

For Leeds, the defeat marked yet another chapter of frustration, as their hopes of reaching a first FA Cup final since 1973 were dashed, leaving fans questioning missed opportunities in a game they could have controlled.

Chelsea will now face Manchester City in the final on May 16, but based on this laboured display, they may need far more than luck to compete with a side of City’s calibre.