Key Points
- Leeds United face Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, 26 April 2026, with kick-off at 3 pm BST.
- Leeds, managed by Daniel Farke, reached the semi-finals for the first time in 39 years after victories over Derby County (3-1), Birmingham City (1-1, 4-2 on penalties), Norwich City (3-0), and West Ham United (2-2, 4-2 on penalties).
- Chelsea advanced with wins over Charlton Athletic (5-1), Hull City, Wrexham, and Port Vale (7-0).
- Chelsea sacked Liam Rosenior after 23 games; Calum McFarlane is the interim boss.
- Leeds won the FA Cup in 1972; Chelsea has won it eight times.
- UK viewers can watch live on TNT Sports; LUTV provides live audio; club social channels offer updates.
- Leeds is backed by a passionate travelling support.
Leeds (The Leeds Times) April 25, 2026 – Leeds United stand on the brink of history as they prepare to face Chelsea in Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final at Wembley, with kick-off at 3 pm BST.
What is Leeds United’s Path to Wembley?
Leeds United, under manager Daniel Farke, have produced a thrilling cup run to reach the last four for the first time since 1987. The journey began in January with a 3-1 comeback win at Derby County, where a much-changed side overturned a half-time deficit after Ben Brereton Diaz’s opener, as reported by Sky Sports.
In the fourth round on 15 February, Leeds drew 1-1 at Birmingham City, with Lukas Nmecha scoring in normal time and Sean Longstaff converting in the penalty shootout for a 4-2 victory, according to ESPN.
The fifth round saw a 3-0 home win over Norwich City on 8 March at Elland Road, with goals from Sean Longstaff (32′), Gabriel Gudmundsson (43′), and Joel Piroe (85′), drawing 36,313 fans.
Quarter-finals on 5 April brought drama at West Ham United’s London Stadium: Leeds led 2-0 but conceded late goals from Matheus Fernandes and Axel Disasi, forcing extra time and penalties. Lucas Perri made two saves in a 4-2 shootout win, securing the semi-final spot.
How Has Chelsea Performed in This Season’s FA Cup?
Chelsea arrive amid a week of change following the departure of Liam Rosenior. As detailed by Transfermarkt, Rosenior was sacked after 23 games over 104 days, with a points-per-game average of 1.52, prompting the club to appoint Calum McFarlane as interim head coach until the season’s end.
BBC Sport notes McFarlane, 40, joined Chelsea’s academy from Southampton last year, with prior experience at Croydon and Manchester City.
The Blues impressed earlier, thrashing Charlton Athletic 5-1 in the third round, as per Chelsea’s official site. They beat Hull City, Wrexham, and Port Vale 7-0 in the quarter-finals on 4 April at Stamford Bridge.
Jorrel Hato scored in the 64th second, followed by Joao Pedro, an own goal by Jordan Lawrence-Gabriel, Tosin Adarabioyo, Andrey Santos, Estevao Willian, and Alejandro Garnacho.
Who Are the Managers Guiding Each Team?
Daniel Farke has led Leeds on this cup adventure, marking their deepest run since 1987. For Chelsea, Liam Rosenior’s tenure ended abruptly, as announced in a club statement on Wednesday, per Transfermarkt. Calum McFarlane takes charge of the Wembley trip in his first season with the academy.
What is the Historical Context Between Leeds and Chelsea?
Leeds United, FA Cup winners in 1972 against Arsenal (1-0, Allan Clarke’s header), seek to overcome eight-time winners Chelsea. Their 1970 FA Cup final saw Chelsea win 2-1 after extra time in a replay.
Overall head-to-head: 111 meetings, Leeds 41 wins, Chelsea 39, 31 draws, per Sports Mole. Recent: Leeds won 3-1 at home in December 2025; Chelsea edged 3-2 in the 2023-24 FA Cup fifth round.
How Can Supporters Watch the Match?
Supporters can follow all the action live. Full coverage available on TNT Sports in the UK, with kick-off at 3 pm BST on Sunday 26 April 2026, as confirmed by Chelsea FC and TNT Sports sites.
Live audio via LUTV, with subscriptions offering commentary, per club channels. Updates across the club’s social channels.
Tickets are sold via competing clubs, with Wembley noting Level 5’s steep gradient.
Background of the Development
Leeds United’s FA Cup campaign builds on their 1972 triumph, their only win, amid a history of loyalty since 1919 founding. Chelsea’s eight titles include the 1970 win over Leeds, reflecting a rivalry with 111 clashes. This semi-final revives that, with Leeds’ first last-four since 1987 and Chelsea’s changes post-Rosenior.
Prediction: Impact on Leeds United Fans
This development can affect Leeds United fans by offering a chance to end a 54-year FA Cup drought, boosting morale amid league efforts. A final appearance would unite the passionate support, increasing attendance and community engagement at Elland Road. Loss might temper spirits but highlight the thrilling run, sustaining interest in future cups. Chelsea fans face uncertainty with interim management, potentially affecting loyalty if results falter.
