Leeds United are set for a massive occasion as they prepare to face Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley later today.
It is their first appearance at this stage in nearly 40 years, and they now have a genuine opportunity to reach the final for the first time in more than 50 years.
They are up against a Chelsea side going through a rough patch, having lost their last five Premier League matches without scoring and sacking their manager just last week.
Even so, Daniel Farke has played down the hype, maintaining that his side are still the underdog, despite Chelsea enduring one of the worst runs in their history.
Chelsea interim boss makes honest Leeds United admission
Chelsea have not had the best of preparations ahead of the semi-final. They are on the club’s worst run in history, losing their last five league games and just lost their manager.
Interim boss Calum McFarlane has the job of ensuring Chelsea reach the FA Cup final and he believes the squad have done everything required to prepare themselves for the challenges they will encounter against Leeds.
However, he conceded that Leeds are a very good team who are going to cause a lot of problems at Wembley later today.
“Everything has been done that we possibly can”, McFarlane told the club’s official website.
“We’re working really hard to make sure the lads are as best prepared as they can be for what Leeds are going to throw at us, and we know what we have to stand up to.
“They’re a really good side that can cause you a lot of problems, and we know the challenge we face, but the players are motivated to get to an FA Cup final.
“Everyone’s on board, and we’re ready.”
Daniel Farke’s side cannot squander this opportunity
Chelsea have found Daniel Farke’s Leeds United a difficult side to deal with this season. They lost 3-1 at Elland Road and were later held to a 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge in February.
Leeds have made those meetings count, taking four points from six against a long-standing rival.
The mood around this semi-final has shifted, though, particularly after Chelsea parted ways with Liam Rosenior. That decision has led many to rethink how the game at Wembley could unfold.
Semi-finals always come with pressure, and Chelsea still have players who are used to the big stage. However, their dip in form, doubts over confidence and fitness, and the recent managerial change have added a layer of uncertainty.
Those earlier results will still be fresh in the memory, and Leeds will head into the game believing they can get the job done. Right now, they are increasingly being seen as slight favourites to edge past the Blues.
This is Leeds’ chance to reach an FA Cup final for the first time in 53 years, and they must not squander it.
