Birmingham 1-1 Leeds United (Leeds win 4-2 on pens) — FA Cup fourth round drama at St Andrew’s
Leeds United survived a nervy trip to St Andrew’s, advancing to the FA Cup fifth round after a 1-1 draw with Birmingham City that was settled by a 4-2 penalty shootout. The tie produced a tense 120 minutes, late chances in extra time and a match-winning contribution from goalkeeper Lucas Perri.
Penalty drama and decisive moments
The match began with both sides probing but tension rose as Birmingham took the lead through a composed finish that sent the home crowd into raptures. Leeds, who found themselves a goal down, fought back and forced the tie deep into extra time. Both teams pushed hard in the closing stages — there were late half-chances and frantic spells at both ends — but the scores remained level at the final whistle, taking the contest to spot-kicks.
The shootout proved the clearest test of nerve. Leeds held their nerve and converted enough of their attempts to clinch a 4-2 victory from the spot. Crucially, Lucas Perri produced a vital save that swung the momentum in Leeds’ favour, and the visiting players composed themselves to see the tie over the line.
Game flow, extra-time chances and reactions
Birmingham were arguably the better side for long stretches of the contest, carving out opportunities and pressing Leeds high at times. Despite that, Leeds found resilience as the match wore on. The hosts had a strong spell late in the second half and fashioned chances in extra time; at one point, an ambitious attempt from distance flew well over, while a quick break nearly produced a decisive opening that was kept out by the opposition goalkeeper.
After the final whistle, Leeds goalkeeper Lucas Perri summed up his view of the contest: “It was an incredible fight from the team. We had a very difficult game, it’s always difficult to play against a team like Birmingham, so congratulations to the whole team for the fight and we got to the next round. ” His saves and calm under pressure were a clear factor in Leeds’ progress.
The manner of the victory underlines the fine margins of cup football. Both benches made tactical tweaks during the contest, and the game’s rhythm flitted between end-to-end bursts and periods of attritional midfield battling. For supporters, the dramatic finish provided the sort of late-tension Theatre that defines the FA Cup’s appeal.
What it means for Leeds and supporters
Advancing to the fifth round keeps Leeds in the domestic cup mix and offers a morale boost ahead of their upcoming fixtures. The squad showed depth and mentality when it mattered most, with youngsters and squad players contributing when called upon.
For travelling fans, the club had issued advice ahead of the fixture stressing respectful conduct, use of designated car parks, following steward and police directions around road closures, and the stadium’s cashless payments policy. Supporters were housed in the lower tier of the Gil Merrick Stand, and stewards provided guidance on entry and exit gates to ease post-match departures. Those practical measures helped ensure the focus remained on the football.
Leeds now turn their attention to the next round, buoyed by a gritty cup display. The win will be welcomed by players and fans alike, but the performance also highlighted areas for improvement as the team balances cup ambitions with the demands of league competition.
