Naomi Girma’s first Chelsea goal proved to be a crucial one for the English giants. Girma helped lead Chelsea past Manchester United 2-1 in Women’s FA Cup play on Sunday as the Blues needed extra time to do so. The U.S. women’s national team defender played the hero for Chelsea, scoring nine minutes into the first extra time period. Sam Kerr broke the deadlock for Chelsea in the 78th minute before Manchester United drew level three minutes later through Simi Awujo’s equalizer. Girma would boost Chelsea back in front for good, finishing off a loose ball into the top-right corner past USWNT teammate Phallon Tullis-Joyce. It marked her first goal in the 94th appearance of her club career (San Diego Wave, Chelsea). Naomi Girma grabs the lead in extra time with her first goal for @ChelseaFCW! Watch live on @footballontnt and @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/K4N20jfyaz— Adobe Women's FA Cup (@AdobeWFACup) February 22, 2026The 25-year-old also won three duels, made 14 clearances, five defensive recoveries and was later named Player of the Match.Chelsea would extend its current winning run to three matches, booking its place into the quarterfinal round. Fellow USWNT player Alyssa Thompson played 78 minutes for Chelsea from the start while Catarina Macario remained out of the squad. Chelsea will next head into an international break, returning to WSL action on March 18 against Brighton & Hove Albion.