Leeds United have managed to put together an FA Cup run as the highlight of their season so far. The Whites have had a very mixed season in the top flight after being promoted.
After a very underwhelming start to the campaign, things did not go well for Leeds. They managed to turn things around in the middle of the season, and have given themselves a fighting chance in the Premier League with eight games to go. From now till the end of the season, every point is crucial as their hopes for next season are on the line.
Joe Cole gives prediction ahead of Leeds United FA Cup semi-final
In contrast to their form in the top flight, Leeds United have had a superb run in the FA Cup. They cruised through most of their ties, with their only struggle before facing West Ham being a penalty shootout victory over Birmingham City. So when the Whites drew the Hammers, fans had a lot of optimism going into the game. And it looked like a place in the semi-final was booked when Daniel Farke’s side had a two goal lead.
West Ham scored twice in the space of minutes to take the game to Extra time, and eventually a penalty shootout. Lucas Perri’s heroics saved the day as Leeds United triumphed. Farke’s men will meet Chelsea in the semi-final later this month, and now former West Ham and Chelsea man has described the upcoming clash between Leeds and the Blues as ”fiesty”.
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Stamford Bridge collapse could be the blueprint
Chelsea’s last two meetings with Leeds United have not gone well. Enzo Maresca was completely embarassed as his side were outplayed by Daniel Farke’s men at Elland Road late last year. And when the two sides met in the reverse fixture, the Blues looked to be walking away with a win, until Leeds pulled two goals back in the space of 20 minutes.
The draw at Stamford Bridge a few months ago should give Farke a route into potentially winning the upcoming tie. Leeds sat back, playing just one attacking player and it backfired. But when Noah Okafor was subbed on for a defender, things changed and the game was stretched for Liam Rosenior’s men which ultimately lead to the Whites getting two goals and leaving with a draw. If Leeds can produce a similar display, they have a chance of making the FA Cup final.
