Leeds United aim to end their long exile from the FA Cup final on Sunday when they take on Chelsea.
The Whites are appearing in their first semi-final in thirty-nine seasons today. This matches the longest such gap in the history of the competition. Daniel Farke’s side arrive at Wembley in excellent form after a seven-game unbeaten run. They have kept four clean sheets in those matches to cool their relegation fears.
Leeds have already avoided defeat in both Premier League meetings with Chelsea this season. They knocked out West Ham on penalties to reach this historic stage at Wembley. That said, they have lost both of their previous visits to the new national stadium. The Yorkshire club last lifted the FA Cup trophy in the 1971-72 campaign.
Daniel Farke confirmed significant selection issues during his pre-match briefing on Friday. Ilia Gruev will miss the rest of the campaign with a meniscus injury. Midfielder Anton Stach has not yet returned to training following an ankle problem. Farke remains hopeful that Sebastiaan Bornauw and Jayden Bogle can feature today.
Both defenders have been managing slight knocks but are expected to play. In his absence, the squad would lack significant depth against a high-scoring Chelsea attack. Lucas Perri is set to start between the posts at Wembley Stadium. Ethan Ampadu and Ao Tanaka will provide the defensive screen in the midfield engine room.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin is expected to lead the line as the club’s top scorer. He has netted twelve goals this season and remains their primary attacking threat. Brenden Aaronson and Noah Okafor will provide the creative support from the flanks. Leeds have conceded eleven goals from the ninetieth minute onwards this season. Farke will demand total concentration until the final whistle today.
Leeds United Predicted XI: Perri, Struijk, Bijol, Rodon, Bogle, Ampadu, Tanaka, Gudmundsson, Aaronson, Okafor, Calvert-Lewin
The FA Cup semi-final starts at 15:00 BST on Sunday, 26 April 2026.
The game is broadcast live on TNT Sports 1 and available on HBO Max.
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See Also- The teams with the most FA Cup semi-final appearances in history
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