Chelsea twice came from behind to edge past Hollywood-backed Wrexham 4-2 in a thrilling FA Cup clash on Saturday, denying the second-tier side a fairytale run to the quarter-finals.
The match at the Racecourse Ground drew the attention of actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, who watched Wrexham take the lead through Sam Smith. Chelsea equalised shortly before halftime courtesy of an own goal from Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo.
The second half began with Wrexham applying pressure, and Callum Doyle put the home side ahead again in the 78th minute with a smart flick from Josh Windass’s shot. Chelsea, however, responded quickly as Josh Acheampong levelled the score four minutes later.
The game shifted in Chelsea’s favour in stoppage time when George Dobson was sent off, giving the visitors a numerical advantage. Alejandro Garnacho scored early in extra time, and Joao Pedro added a late fourth to seal the win.
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior made nine changes from the Premier League side, balancing league and Champions League commitments, yet the team struggled to break down Phil Parkinson’s organised Championship outfit.
Wrexham, who had earlier eliminated Nottingham Forest, created multiple chances, including a disallowed goal from Kieffer Moore and near-misses from Lewis O’Brien and Pedro Neto.
With the FA Cup win, Chelsea now focus on their Champions League last-16 tie against Paris Saint-Germain, while Wrexham continues their push for a historic Premier League promotion.
What you should know
Chelsea’s FA Cup victory over Wrexham was a dramatic encounter that saw the second-tier side twice take the lead, only to be undone by an own goal, a red card, and late extra-time strikes.
Despite the loss, Wrexham showcased their ability to challenge top-flight opposition, maintaining momentum in their campaign for promotion to the Premier League.
Chelsea, meanwhile, advance to the quarter-finals, keeping their domestic cup ambitions alive while preparing for a tough Champions League clash.
