Birmingham, England, ENG — Demarai Gray's late strike salvaged a replay for Birmingham City against Leeds United in a tightly contested FA Cup encounter at St. Andrew's Stadium.
Leeds appeared headed for victory after Lukas Nmecha broke the deadlock four minutes into the second half, but Gray's 89th-minute equalizer ensured the tie will be decided at Elland Road.
The match featured an extraordinary penalty shootout sequence at the 120-minute mark, with both sides converting multiple spot kicks. Sean Longstaff, Brenden Aaronson, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin all found the net for Leeds, while Marvin Ducksch and Jay Stansfield converted for Birmingham. Joël Piroe also scored for the visitors in the shootout.
Birmingham controlled possession for much of the contest, holding 54.6% of the ball compared to Leeds' 45.4%. The hosts also edged the shot count 18-19 and registered five shots on target to Leeds' three.
GOALS:- 49' Lukas Nmecha - Leeds United- 89' Demarai Gray - Birmingham City
STANDOUT PLAYERS:- Birmingham City: Demarai Gray - Late equalizer, constant attacking threat- Leeds United: Lukas Nmecha - Opening goal, held up play effectively
KEY STAT: Birmingham registered five shots on target compared to Leeds' three despite being outshot 18-19 overall.