Leeds United
West Ham vs Leeds United penalty shootout. Credit: Imago
Leeds United fans are in dreamland after their side booked a place in the FA Cup semi-final on Sunday. There was a lot of optimism going into the game as they were set to face the Hammers.
Both sides were competing in the relegation battle in the Premier League. The Whites had a favourable route in the FA Cup so far, drawing only teams from the Championship in that run. Going into the game, there was a lot of confidence that they could beat the Hammers, seeing that they already did so when the two sides faced off in the league.
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Danny Dyer visibly frustrated after West Ham loss
And Leeds United looked to be cruising to a semi-final slot, with a 2-0 lead in the 75th minute. The Whites managed to hold on to the result into the 90th minute and added time, but their resolve was broken soon after. West Ham somehow managed to score two goals in the space of three minutes as Mateus Fernandes and Axel Disasi pushed the tie into extra time.
Leeds United
Danny Dyer after Jarrod Bowen’s penalty miss.
The Hammers had a goal cancelled in the first period of extra time, with Leeds feeling relieved. The game went to a penalty shootout where the heroics of Lucas Perri saved the day. West Ham fan Danny Dyer, who was in the stands watching the game, was shocked when Perri managed to save Jarrod Bowen’s spot kick. That momentum alone was enough to carry the Whites to a win and now they have booked a game against Chelsea in the next few weeks.
READ MORE: Joe Cole gives prediction for Leeds United against Chelsea in FA Cup semi-final
Leeds United have a real chance at Wembley
With the other options being Southampton and Manchester City, some Leeds fans will be okay with drawing Chelsea. Joe Cole has mentioned that the game between both sides is going to be a feisty one because of previous encounters between both sides. And one important thing to note is that, this season Leeds are unbeaten against the blues.
Daniel Farke’s men embarrassed Chelsea at Elland Road, and outplayed them when Enzo Maresca was in charge. And when the two sides met at Stamford Bridge, the Whites somehow managed to leave with a point. Going into that game, Liam Rosenior had a near perfect record to start his tenure as Chelsea boss. A second half collapse after some key changes by Farke was enough to take a draw.