adminLeeds United striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin responded strongly to his recent penalty miss at Crystal Palace by converting two crucial spot-kicks in Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final victory over West Ham.
The forward had previously fired wide from the spot in a goalless Premier League draw at Selhurst Park, a moment that proved costly as Leeds missed the chance to take control. That setback, compounded by Gabriel Gudmundsson’s red card shortly after, effectively ended their hopes of securing all three points.
Returning from international duty with a minor hamstring concern, Calvert-Lewin began the FA Cup clash on the bench before coming on in the 70th minute. He was soon presented with an opportunity after Max Kilman fouled Brenden Aaronson, and he made no mistake from 12 yards, confidently putting Leeds 2-0 ahead.
West Ham staged a late comeback to level the match 2-2, forcing a penalty shootout. With Joel Piroe’s opening effort saved by young debutant Finlay Herrick, pressure mounted on Calvert-Lewin as Leeds’ second taker. However, he stepped up again with composure, converting his penalty to help guide the team to a 4-2 shootout win.
Speaking after the match, Calvert-Lewin admitted his previous miss was on his mind but revealed he had worked hard in training to improve. He emphasized trusting his routine and execution, which paid off when it mattered most. The striker also noted he had a strong feeling he would make an impact after coming off the bench.
Goals in the shootout from Brenden Aaronson, Willy Gnonto, and Pascal Struijk, along with key saves from Lucas Perri against Jarrod Bowen and Pablo Felipe, sealed Leeds’ place in the FA Cup semi-finals—their first in 39 years.
Manager Daniel Farke will now lead his side to Wembley, where they are set to face Chelsea. Despite acknowledging the challenge ahead, Calvert-Lewin expressed excitement about playing at Wembley for the first time at club level and remained optimistic about Leeds’ chances in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
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