Leeds United arrive at Wembley for Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final not just as competitors, but as the clear side in form. Daniel Farke has overseen a remarkable transformation, with his team losing only four of their last 25 matches in all competitions.
Fittingly, that incredible run began with a dominant 3-1 victory over Chelsea earlier in the season. Now unbeaten in seven games, the Whites look to return to a major domestic final for the first time in decades.
In stark contrast, Chelsea is a club in total disarray. The Blues board finally pulled the trigger on manager Liam Rosenior this week following a disastrous run of seven consecutive defeats across the Premier League and Champions League.
Without a permanent successor in place for this trip to the national stadium, interim boss McFarlane must find a way to stop a rot that has seen the club plummet in confidence and stature.
What are the best picks for Chelsea vs Leeds?
Back Leeds United to advance
Momentum is a powerful currency in cup football, and Leeds has it in spades. While Chelsea possesses individual stars, the collective confidence of the squad is at an all-time low. Leeds’ high-pressing system is designed to punish the exact kind of hesitant, error-prone play Chelsea has displayed during their seven-game losing streak.
Expect Farke’s men to be sharper in transition and more cohesive over 90 minutes.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin to score or assist
The veteran striker has found a second wind in Yorkshire and remains the focal point of an attack that has clicked into gear during this seven-game unbeaten stretch.
Chelsea’s backline, missing the steadying influence of several injured regulars, has looked particularly vulnerable to physical strikers and aerial duels.
Whether it is a clinical header or a smart lay-off for runners like Okafor, expect Calvert-Lewin to be involved in the scoring.
Over 2.5 total goals
History and current form suggest the nets will bulge at Wembley. Chelsea’s defense has been porous, conceding two or more goals in five of their last seven outings.
However, with the pressure of the Rosenior era lifted and the return of attacking talents like Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro, the Blues may play with a desperate, chaotic energy.
Leeds games have averaged high goal counts over their recent 25-match run, making the over a strong addition to this parlay.
Where can I watch Chelsea vs Leeds?
USA viewers can stream this FA Cup semi-final live on ESPN+ at 11:30 a.m. ET on Sunday, April 26.
Supporters in the UK can catch the match live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer with a 4:30 p.m. local kick-off.
What is Chelsea’s current form?
L-L-L-L-L-L
What is Leeds United’s current form?
W-W-D-W-W-D
What is Chelsea’s predicted team?
Sánchez; Acheampong, Chalobah, Hato, Cucurella; Fernández, Caicedo; Palmer, Pedro, Neto; Delap
Injured: Estevao, James, Jorgensen, Colwill, Bynoe-Gittens
Suspended: Mudryk
What is Leeds United’s predicted team?
Perri; Struijk, Bijol, Justin; Bogle, Ampadu, Tanaka, Gudmundsson; Aaronson, Okafor; Calvert-Lewin
Injured: Gruev, Stach
Doubts: Bornauw
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