Chelsea advanced to the FA Cup quarter-finals after a hard-fought 4-2 extra-time victory over Wrexham. The Premier League giants secured their passage after a tense battle at the Racecourse Ground.
Alejandro Garnacho opened the scoring in extra time with a powerful volley in the 97th minute. Wrexham, reduced to ten men after George Dobson's 93rd-minute red card, had a late equalizer disallowed for offside.
Joao Pedro sealed Chelsea's win with a close-range finish in the 125th minute. Earlier, Wrexham had taken the lead through Sam Smith in the 18th minute, capitalizing on a long pass. Chelsea equalized due to an own goal when George Thomason's clearance deflected in off the goalkeeper. Wrexham regained the lead in the 78th minute via an own goal from Callum Doyle, but Josh Acheampong's strike shortly after forced extra time.
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior acknowledged the team's performance was not ideal but expressed delight in advancing. Wrexham, owned by Hollywood stars Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, showcased a strong performance, reflecting their recent success and bid for promotion.