City secure FA Cup triumph to keep treble hopes alive

Manchester City claimed the FA Cup title with a 1-0 victory over Chelsea at Wembley Stadium on 16 May 2026, maintaining their pursuit of a domestic treble. Antoine Semenyo scored the decisive goal in the 72nd minute, breaking down a Chelsea side that had defended with notable discipline throughout the first half. The win follows City’s earlier triumph in the Carabao Cup in March, positioning the club for a critical phase in the Premier League title race.

The match remained tightly contested until Semenyo’s intervention, which was described as a moment of improvisation. Bernardo Silva initiated the attacking move by feeding Erling Haaland into a channel on the right. Haaland then delivered a cross that Semenyo deftly diverted across goalkeeper Robert Sánchez into the corner, allowing the ball to pass through his legs before striking it with his right boot.

Chelsea, managed on an interim basis by Calum McFarlane, had stifled City’s offensive play in the opening period. The London club utilised a back five to restrict space, resulting in few clear-cut chances for the visitors. City’s Erling Haaland had a goal disallowed for offside in the first half, with Matheus Nunes identified as being offside before the cross.

Pep Guardiola expressed dissatisfaction with the officiating during the first half, specifically regarding a two-footed challenge by Enzo Fernández on Bernardo Silva that resulted in only a yellow card. Despite City’s superiority in the second half, Chelsea created opportunities to equalise, including a chance for Fernández that sailed over the bar, before Semenyo’s goal ultimately settled the contest.

The victory ensures that if this is Pep Guardiola’s final season in charge, he will have secured at least two trophies. Manchester City now turn their attention to the Premier League, preparing to face Bournemouth away on Tuesday as they seek to complete the domestic treble.