Chelsea head into a crucial FA Cup semi-final clash against Leeds United under a cloud of uncertainty, following a turbulent period that has seen another managerial change at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues parted ways with Liam Rosenior after a disastrous run of results, a sequence that included a heavy 3–0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion, further intensifying pressure before his eventual dismissal. In the meantime, interim boss Calum McFarlane takes charge as Chelsea aim to salvage their season with a place in the final.
Leeds, on the other hand, arrive in strong form and full of confidence. Their recent performances, including a commanding 3–0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers, have pushed them closer to Premier League safety and given them momentum heading into this high-stakes encounter.
The highlights of that Leeds vs Wolves clash have also been posted by leeds via YouTube channel, allowing fans to revisit the key moments from the dominant display.
Watch video below;
With a long unbeaten run and stability lacking at Chelsea, the balance of confidence appears to favour the Yorkshire side.
Team news
Team news brings a mix of positives and setbacks for both teams. Chelsea could welcome back Joao Pedro and Cole Palmer, both of whom have returned to training and may feature. However, they remain without several key players including Estevao Willian, Reece James, Levi Colwill and Mykhaylo Mudryk.
Leeds will be without Ilia Gruev for the rest of the season, but there is optimism around the fitness of Jayden Bogle, Sebastiaan Bornauw and Anton Stach ahead of the trip to Wembley.
Possible lineups
Possible lineups for the semi-final:
Chelsea possible starting XI: Sanchez, Acheampong, Chalobah, Hato, Cucurella, Fernandez, Caicedo, Palmer, Pedro, Neto, Delap
Leeds United possible starting XI: Perri; Struijk, Bijol, Rodon; Bogle, Ampadu, Tanaka, Gudmundsson; Aaronson, Okafor; Calvert-Lewin
Where to watch
| Region | Broadcaster | Time |
| UK | BBC / ITV | 15:00 |
| USA | ESPN+ | 10:00 |
| Nigeria | SuperSport Football | 15:00 |
| Global | FA Player (select regions) | Varies |
Softfootball note that while Chelsea’s cup pedigree and squad quality still make them dangerous, Leeds’ current form and momentum could prove decisive, setting up what promises to be an open and highly competitive semi-final clash.
