Leeds United are heading to Wembley for the FA Cup semi-final after a dramatic win against West Ham. After 39 years, Leeds United supporters are now dreaming of their side lifting the trophy for the first time since 1972.
A Quarter-Final of High Drama at West Ham
Leeds led 2-0 going into the third of 11 minutes of injury time, only to then concede twice. The Hammers forced extra time at London Stadium. The hosts then celebrated what could have been winning goals twice, only for them to both be ruled out for offside.
Leeds missed first in the penalty shootout. 20-year-old reserve goalkeeper Finlay Herrick replaced the injured Alphonse Areola for his West Ham debut and blocked Joel Piroe’s spot-kick.
Lucas Perri saved from Jarrod Bowen and Pablo. Pascal Struijk kept his nerve to help Leeds win 4-2 on penalties and book a Wembley last-four tie against Chelsea.
Farke’s Pride After Emotional Win
“It was a bit of a crazy game, lots of excitement and in a quarter-final both teams are fighting to make history for their club,” said Farke. “I’m just proud of my boys, how we dealt with so many setbacks, not just the two late goals but injuries. We missed the first penalty but we stuck together and wanted to win.
“We have rewarded our fantastic fanbase with the first semi-final in decades so it’s a great night for Leeds United.”
- Leeds draw Chelsea in FA Cup semi-finals
- Manchester City face Southampton in the other semi-final
- Leeds have only won the FA Cup once, beating Arsenal 1-0 at Wembley
Underdogs Against Chelsea
Farke said it will be a special occasion on the weekend of 25-26 April.
“I feel pretty humble as you can see how much it means to our supporters to get to the first semi-final in decades – it has not been an easy time for the club,” said the German. “You can see it in the fans’ eyes, I know how much it means to them.
“We will be the underdog, that’s for sure. Chelsea are a big name and a side full of top players, but we have written history. Nobody expected us to go though to the semi.
Leeds beat Chelsea 3-1 at Elland Road in December before a 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge in February.