Manchester City claimed the 2026 Emirates FA Cup title after claiming a 1-0 victory over Chelsea in a fiercely contested final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday (May 16). Antoine Semenyo’s moment of pure brilliance in the 72nd minute settled a match of high tension, defensive excellence, and late controversy, handing Pep Guardiola’s side their eighth FA Cup title and a domestic cup double.
Tight first half sets stage for drama
From kick-off, the two Premier League giants served up a classic cup final battle. City held the greater share of possession and probed with intent through Erling Haaland and Omar Marmoush, yet Chelsea, under interim manager Calum McFarlane, remained disciplined and compact. Both backlines excelled, snuffing out attacks before they could develop. Clear chances were scarce, and the score remained 0-0 at the break, leaving 90,000 fans inside the national stadium on edge.
Antoine Semenyo delivers a decisive flash of genius
The breakthrough arrived with 18 minutes remaining. Bernardo Silva found Haaland on the right flank, and the Norwegian forward drilled in a low, inviting cross. Semenyo, the January signing from Bournemouth who has quickly become a fan favourite, reacted with instinctive brilliance. Turning his back to goal, he flicked the ball past Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez with the outside of his trailing boot, an audacious, perfectly executed finish that left the keeper stranded.
Wembley erupted as City players mobbed their match-winner. The Ghana international’s strike was worthy of any major final, showcasing quick thinking and sublime technique. It broke Chelsea’s resolve and ultimately secured the silverware for Manchester City.
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