Chelsea to Face Leeds United in FA Cup Semi-Finals Draw

Chelsea F.C. will take on historic rivals Leeds United F.C. in the semi-finals of the FA Cup, following the outcome of the latest draw.

The highly anticipated encounter adds another chapter to one of the competition’s most storied rivalries. Leeds secured their place in the semi-finals after edging past West Ham United F.C. on penalties in their quarter-final clash.

In the other semi-final, Manchester City F.C.—widely regarded as favourites—will face Championship side Southampton F.C.. Notably, both clubs have played a significant role in curtailing Arsenal F.C.’s ambitions of securing a quadruple this season, leaving them with the prospect of, at best, a double.

Both semi-final fixtures are scheduled to be played at Wembley Stadium over the weekend of 25–26 April, with Chelsea and Manchester City expected to be strong contenders for a place in the final. However, the unpredictable nature of knockout football ensures that no outcome can be taken for granted.

Chelsea’s recent record against Leeds offers a mixed picture. The Blues have managed just two victories in their last five meetings across all competitions. While they secured a 3-2 win in the fifth round of the 2023–24 FA Cup, they suffered a 3-1 league defeat at Elland Road in December and were held to a 2-2 draw in the reverse fixture at Stamford Bridge in February.

With a place in the FA Cup final at stake, both sides will be eager to assert themselves in what promises to be a fiercely contested semi-final encounter.