Southampton secured a dramatic 2-1 FA Cup victory over Leicester City, with James Bree's extra-time goal proving the difference.
Southampton secured a dramatic 2-1 FA Cup victory over Leicester City on Valentine's Day 2026. James Bree netted the decisive goal deep into extra time, sending the home crowd into raptures.
Both sides entered this FA Cup clash eager for progress, with the competition offering a welcome distraction from potential league challenges. Leicester aimed to reassert their top-tier dominance, while Southampton sought to prove their mettle against a formidable opponent.
The first half saw a cautious approach from both teams. Early exchanges were tight, with neither side able to gain a clear advantage. Defences remained well-organised as the clock ticked towards the interval.
As half-time approached, the deadlock was finally broken. A late challenge inside the box resulted in a penalty for Southampton. Cyle Larin stepped up confidently in the 45+1 minute, dispatching the spot-kick with precision and power to give his side a crucial 1-0 lead just before the break.
The Saints carried their slender lead into half-time, knowing Leicester would respond strongly in the second period. The visitors needed a tactical adjustment to break down Southampton's resolute defence and find a way back into the tie.
Leicester indeed emerged with renewed vigour after the restart. Their increased pressure paid dividends swiftly as Oliver Skipp found the equaliser for the Foxes. Skipp scored a well-taken goal in the 52nd minute, bringing the scores level at 1-1 and ensuring a tense finish to regular time.
Managers from both benches made a series of tactical substitutions, desperately seeking a winning edge. Oriol Romeu and Samuel Edozie entered for Southampton in the 63rd minute, while Leicester responded with changes including Harry Winks and Victor Kristiansen. Despite further efforts and a flurry of yellow cards, neither team could find a decisive goal in normal time, forcing the FA Cup tie into extra time.
Extra time continued the fiercely contested battle. The decisive moment finally arrived in the 109th minute when defender James Bree surged forward for Southampton. Bree then guided his shot past the Leicester goalkeeper, sparking wild celebrations and giving Southampton a 2-1 lead with little time remaining for the visitors to recover.
Leicester showed more attacking intent throughout the match, holding 56% possession and registering 17 total shots compared to Southampton's 12. Both sides managed four shots on target, highlighting Southampton's clinical edge when it mattered most, securing their advancement.
