In a game where the two sides were evenly matched throughout, Chelsea’s clinicalness proved the difference as Leicester missed a number of chances late in both periods that could have seen them through.
Alvaro Morata got the opener just before half time, before Jamie Vardy capitalised on a goalmouth scramble to restore parity. The 90 minutes finished with the score at 1-1 and the game went to extra time. In the 105th minute, Pedro headed home to put Chelsea through.
Morata was given the start by Antonio Conte as both managers named strong sides - the FA Cup was the last shot at silverware for both clubs.
The Spaniard repaid his manager’s faith with a well taken goal in the 41st minute. Willian broke with the ball after Leicester lost possession and he put it on a plate for Morata to run on to, take a touch, and place a finish over Schmeichel and into the net.
Leicester came out of the blocks quick at the beginning of the second half and it did look like it was only a matter of time before the equalising goal came. However, Willy Caballero was alert to any balls over the top, racing out to deny Jamie Vardy on a number of occasions, as well as making a couple of neat saves.
18 March 2018
The goal did materialise though, 15 minutes from time. Vardy poked home after a scramble in the box that saw Caballero’s save fall at the striker’s feet. Leicester then missed chances with Okazaki and Vardy again going close.
It was Chelsea who had the best chance to wrap the game up before the whistle - Morata hit the bar after not being flagged despite being in an offside position.
Extra time began and it was Chelsea who took advantage. Pedro made a ghosting run into the box and Kante whipped in the cross, the Spaniard just beating Schmeichel to the ball to head into an empty net.
18 March 2018
It was enough to put Chelsea into the hat for the next round, Leicester’s tired legs worked hard but they could not find another response.
It effectively ends Leicester’s season, they are safe from the relegation fight. But, for Chelsea, the chance of another trophy for Antonio Conte is still there.