<\/p>\n
Leeds reached the FA Cup semi-finals for the first time in 39 years as they survived a dramatic penalty shoot-out after squandering a two-goal lead in a thrilling clash with West Ham on Sunday.<\/p>\n
Daniel Farke’s side were moments away from victory at the London Stadium after Ao Tanaka’s first-half goal and Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s second-half penalty put them in control.<\/p>\n
But West Ham staged a stoppage-time rally as Mateus Fernandes reduced the deficit before Axel Disasi’s equaliser forced extra time.<\/p>\n
With the score still level at 2-2 after the additional period, Leeds keeper Lucas Perri emerged as their shoot-out hero.<\/p>\n
Joel Piroe missed Leeds’ first penalty but Calvert-Lewin, Brenden Aaronson, Wilfried Gnonto and Pascal Struijk all converted their kicks.<\/p>\n
Perri saved Jarrod Bowen’s opening effort for West Ham and also denied Pablo as Leeds won 4-2 on penalties.<\/p>\n
It was their second shoot-out victory in the competition this season following their fourth-round success at Birmingham.<\/p>\n
Leeds will face Chelsea in the semi-finals at Wembley later in April.<\/p>\n
“We always do it the tough way, never the easy way. We could have made our lives easier,” Farke said. <\/p>\n
“We had a late sucker punch when the whole stadium was buzzing. To keep the nerves and win the penalty shoot-out shows great mentality and character. <\/p>\n
“A chapter of Leeds history. It will be a big night for us at Wembley. It’s a great step for this club and a great reward for everyone.”<\/p>\n The game that had EVERYTHING.<\/p>\n A thrilling encounter between @WestHam<\/a> and @LUFC<\/a> went the distance, as the away side booked their Wembley spot \ud83e\udd0d#EmiratesFACup<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/WfE4x8wY30<\/a><\/p>\n\n