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Chelsea Edges Wrexham 4-2 in FA Cup Thriller

3/8/2026

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Summary

Chelsea Triumphs Again

Chelsea defeated Wrexham 4-2 in the FA Cup fifth round.
Wrexham led twice through Sam Smith and Callum Doyle, showcasing their potential under the Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
George Dobson received a red card.
Alejandro Garnacho scored the decisive goal in extra time, with João Pedro adding a late strike.
Wrexham's Lewis Brunt had a goal disallowed for offside.

Summary

Rosenior Applauds Wrexham

Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior praised Wrexham's energetic and brave performance after their 4-2 FA Cup victory.
Rosenior noted Chelsea benefited from VAR decisions: a red card for George Dobson and a disallowed goal for Lewis Brunt.
He acknowledged luck and the challenge of facing lower-league teams in cup ties.
Rosenior defended his squad rotation strategy as essential for fitness ahead of the Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain.

History

Historical Context

The FA Cup, established in 1871, is the oldest national football competition, showcasing dramatic upsets like Sunderland's 1973 victory over Leeds United. This tradition of "giant-killing" continues, as seen with Wrexham's recent performance against Chelsea. The competition remains significant for its unpredictability and the growing involvement of celebrities like Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in sports ownership.

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Chelsea Triumphs Again

Chelsea defeated Wrexham 4-2 in the FA Cup fifth round.
Wrexham led twice through Sam Smith and Callum Doyle, showcasing their potential under the Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
George Dobson received a red card.
Alejandro Garnacho scored the decisive goal in extra time, with João Pedro adding a late strike.
Wrexham's Lewis Brunt had a goal disallowed for offside.

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