Leeds edge Birmingham on penalties as Wolves battle through in FA Cup

• Sean Longstaff converts decisive spot kick as Leeds win shootout after 1-1 draw
• Patrick Roberts forces extra time with late equaliser for Birmingham
• Wolves progress with hard fought 1-0 win over Grimsby

Sean Longstaff scored the decisive penalty as Leeds booked their place in the FA Cup last 16, overcoming Birmingham 4-2 in a shootout after a dramatic tie finished 1–1 following extra time.

Leeds had looked on course to progress when Lukas Nmecha struck early in the second half, capitalising on a defensive error before firing a powerful finish past the goalkeeper. It was a rare moment of attacking quality in a contest that had been dominated by Birmingham for long spells.

The hosts had created the better chances in the opening period, with goalkeeper Lucas Perri producing a series of excellent saves to deny Jay Stansfield, Jhon Solis and Demarai Gray. Birmingham’s pressure eventually told late on, as substitute Patrick Roberts curled in a deflected effort from outside the area in the 89th minute to force extra time.

Both sides had opportunities in the additional 30 minutes, with chances falling to Dominic Calvert Lewin, Joël Piroe and Ethan Ampadu for Leeds, while Birmingham went close through Ibrahim Osman. Neither could find a winner, sending the tie to penalties.

Leeds held their nerve, with Piroe, Calvert Lewin, Brenden Aaronson and Longstaff all converting. Birmingham faltered when Tommy Doyle’s effort was saved and Roberts sent his attempt over the bar, sealing Leeds’ passage into the next round. The club will now aim to reach the quarter finals for the first time since the 2002-03 season.

Elsewhere, Wolves secured their place in the fifth round with a gritty 1-0 win away at Grimsby in testing conditions.

On a heavily waterlogged pitch at Blundell Park, fluent football proved impossible. Wolves survived early pressure before gaining control, and Santiago Bueno’s second half strike was enough to see off spirited resistance from their League Two opponents.

Grimsby, who had beaten Manchester United earlier in the season, threatened another upset but were ultimately unable to find a way past Wolves, who progressed through discipline and resilience rather than style.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.

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