Kelechi Iheanacho sends Leicester into FA Cup final

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Super Eagles striker, Kelechi Iheanacho, fired Leicester City into their first FA Cup final since 1969 as 4,000 spectators witnessed their 1-0 win over Southampton at Wembley.

Iheanacho’s swept finish at the second attempt after 55 minutes was enough to ensure the Foxes progress to face Chelsea.

There is expected to be 21,000 in attendance – including far more supporters – when they return to Wembley on May 15 looking to win their first-ever FA Cup.

James Maddison missed two good chances to extend Leicester’s lead following his introduction off the bench in front of the watching Gareth Southgate, but one goal was enough for Brendan Rodgers’ side.

Southampton last reached the FA Cup final in 2003 but failed to register a shot on target – the best chance falling to Ibrahima Diallo – as their run came to a disappointing end.

Iheanacho, who benefited from Jamie Vardy’s fine work to score 10 minutes after the interval, says: “It is a dream come true. I watched the FA Cup when I was little and now I get the chance to play in the final.

“I think the FA Cup loves me and I love the FA Cup.”

The game was played in front of 4,000 supporters as part of a pilot scheme, with research being carried out on allowing fans back in to sporting events as coronavirus restrictions are eased.

Tickets were limited to residents of Brent – the north London borough where Wembley Stadium is situated – and key workers.

Those inside Wembley witnessed a mainly dour game but Leicester, playing in their first semi-final since 1982, will not care – and neither will their followers.

Southampton were strangely lacking in intensity, barely threatening Leicester keeper Kasper Schmeichel.

Rodgers’ side will now face Chelsea in the final on 15 May, their first appearance in the showpiece since they lost 1-0 to Manchester City 52 years ago.

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