Chelsea Face Leeds in a Clash You Can't Miss: Bold Predictions and Expected Lineups Revealed

A historically charged encounter is set to take place at Wembley Stadium this Sunday, with Chelsea taking on Leeds United in the FA Cup semifinal.

The two clubs met in the 1970 FA Cup final and its subsequent replay, contests widely regarded as the most brutal and intense ever played in English football. The north-south divide fueled an extraordinarily fierce rivalry, which Chelsea ultimately claimed after extra time in the replay.

Far less physicality is anticipated in this weekend's encounter, though passions will remain elevated as both sides chase a spot in the final.

Chelsea arrive at the fixture in dreadful form and under caretaker boss Calum McFarlane, following the recent sacking of Liam Rosenior. After seven losses in eight matches and five consecutive league games without a goal, BlueCo's tolerance for their inexperienced manager finally expired.

Chelsea's slump has been so severe that many now consider Leeds the favorites heading into the semifinal. The Whites have bolstered their Premier League survival push in recent weeks with an impressive run of form, and have claimed four points from Chelsea in the league this season—including a commanding 3–1 victory at Elland Road back in December.

Chelsea vs. Leeds Score Prediction

More Misery for Chelsea

Chelsea find themselves in a deepening crisis right now. Rosenior's dismissal could ignite a late-season revival, but the issues at Stamford Bridge extend well beyond the manager. Fan protests against the ownership and a squad performing well below its potential set the scene for Sunday's contest.

The mood is considerably brighter in Yorkshire, with Leeds having extended their cushion above the relegation zone ahead of the semifinal, effectively securing their top-flight status for next season. They can approach Wembley with freedom and belief.

Chelsea may possess the stronger squad on paper, but momentum could carry Leeds to their first FA Cup final appearance since 1973.

Prediction: Chelsea 1–1 Leeds (Leeds win on penalties)

Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs. Leeds

Chelsea's troubles have been compounded by a series of poorly timed injuries. Already deprived of Levi Colwill, Jamie Gittens, Filip Jörgensen and, crucially, club captain Reece James—all still sidelined—their attacking options have been further depleted by fitness setbacks.

Estêvão's hamstring injury has ended his season prematurely, with the Brazilian potentially also missing the World Cup. Fellow countryman João Pedro has also been absent for the past two matches, while Cole Palmer sat out the dismal 3–0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion.

McFarlane has confirmed that both Pedro and Palmer have returned to training and, despite remaining doubts, the interim manager is "hopeful" the duo will be available at Wembley.

Chelsea predicted lineup vs. Leeds (4-2-3-1): Sánchez; Gusto, Fofana, Chalobah, Cucurella; Caicedo, Santos; Palmer, Fernández, Neto; Pedro.

Leeds Predicted Lineup vs. Chelsea

Daniel Farke faces a number of injury concerns ahead of the semifinal, with Anton Stach, Sebastiaan Bornauw and Jayden Bogle all carrying knocks ahead of the tie. The Leeds manager confirmed all three have a chance of being involved this weekend, though late fitness tests will be needed to determine their availability.

There is no such optimism regarding Ilia Gruev, however, with the midfielder ruled out for the remainder of the campaign after sustaining a meniscus injury during last weekend's victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Lucas Perri looks set to start in goal having served as the cup keeper since being displaced as first choice, while significant changes from the midweek draw at Bournemouth appear unlikely.

Leeds predicted lineup vs. Chelsea (3-4-2-1): Perri; Rodon, Bijol, Struijk; Justin, Ampadu, Tanaka, Gudmundsson; Aaronson, Okafor; Calvert-Lewin.

What Time Does Chelsea vs. Leeds Kick Off?

How to Watch Chelsea vs. Leeds on TV, Live Stream