VIDEO | Garnacho shines in Wales: goal, red card, Blues reach quarters | OneFootball

On a night when all eyes were on the absences, especially that of Enzo Fernández, it was Alejandro Garnacho who put the team on his shoulders to lead Chelsea into the FA Cup quarterfinals. The “Blues” suffered more than expected against the surprising Wrexham, the humble Championship team owned by actor Ryan Reynolds, but ultimately prevailed 4-2 in a match that required extra time.

An uphill battle in Wales

The start of the match was a cold shower for Liam Rosenior’s side. Wrexham came out to play as equals and managed to take the lead thanks to a finish from Sam Smith, unleashing euphoria at the Racecourse Ground. However, Chelsea found the equalizer before halftime thanks to Garnacho’s persistence: the “Bichito” fired a powerful shot that deflected off goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, resulting in an own goal for the temporary tie.

Wild second half and the crucial red card

In the second half, the script once again favored the Welsh side, who regained the lead with a spectacular backheel goal from Callum Doyle. Chelsea’s response was immediate and came through youngster Josh Acheampong, who made it 2-2. The turning point of the match came near the end of regular time, when George Dobson delivered a harsh kick to Garnacho. The referee didn’t hesitate and showed him the red card, leaving Wrexham with ten men to face extra time.

Garnacho sealed the deal

With the numerical advantage, Chelsea took control of the pitch and it was the Argentine national team forward who led the way. Just as the first extra period began, Garnacho appeared in the box to finish with class and make it 3-2, turning the score around for the first time that night. Near the end, with Wrexham throwing everything forward, Portuguese striker Joao Pedro sealed the final 4-2.

On to the quarterfinals

With this victory, the London side moves into the last eight of the world’s oldest competition, keeping their title hopes alive in a season full of ups and downs. Alejandro Garnacho stands out as the great offensive asset for the “Blues,” showing that he can be the team’s footballing leader even in the toughest moments.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.