As Leeds United gear up to face Norwich City in the second leg of their Championship playoff semi-final at Elland Road, football fans are eagerly anticipating a thrilling contest.
The tie remains finely balanced following a goalless draw in the first leg at Carrow Road, setting the stage for a high-stakes encounter with the winner heading to Wembley.
Match Preview
Leeds
Leeds United, under the guidance of Daniel Farke, will be looking to capitalise on their home advantage.
Despite a recent dip in form, with only one win in their last seven matches, Leeds have a solid track record against Norwich at Elland Road.
Farke's side have triumphed in their last two home fixtures against the Canaries, including a narrow 1-0 victory earlier this season.
Norwich
On the other hand, Norwich City, managed by David Wagner, have also been struggling for consistency.
With only two wins in their last eight games, the Canaries will need to rediscover their attacking prowess if they are to advance to the playoff final.
The potential absence of top scorer Joshua Sargent due to an ankle injury could be a significant setback for Norwich.
Team News
Leeds United
Leeds United will be without defender Pascal Struijk, who is sidelined for the season following groin surgery.
Striker Patrick Bamford is also a major doubt, nursing a patellar tendon injury. However, Daniel James is likely to feature after recovering from his injuries, providing a much-needed boost to Leeds' attacking options.
Norwich City
For Norwich, the fitness of Joshua Sargent and Ashley Barnes remains a concern.
Sargent's ankle injury and Barnes' calf problem might force Wagner to rely on Sydney van Hooijdonk, who could make his first start for the Canaries.
Norwich will also miss Liam Gibbs and Onel Hernandez, who are out with muscle and foot injuries, respectively.
Prediction
Leeds United are slightly favoured to come out on top, given their home advantage and previous successes against Norwich at Elland Road.
The potential absence of Sargent could hinder Norwich's attacking threat, tipping the balance in Leeds' favour.
Our Predicted Scoreline: Leeds United 2-1 Norwich City
FAQ
When and where is the Leeds United vs Norwich City match taking place? The match is scheduled for Thursday, May 16, 2024, at 8 pm UK time. It will be held at Elland Road, the home ground of Leeds United.
What was the result of the first leg? The first leg ended in a goalless draw (0-0) at Carrow Road, Norwich's home stadium.
What is at stake in this match? The winner of this match will advance to the Championship playoff final, bringing them one step closer to promotion to the Premier League.
How have Leeds United performed recently? Leeds United have struggled for form, winning only one of their last seven matches. They have also failed to score in four of those games, including two of their last three home matches.
What is Norwich City's recent form like? Norwich City have also had a tough run, winning just two of their last eight matches. They have failed to secure a win in their last four games and have a challenging away record.
What are the key injuries and absences for Leeds United? Leeds United will be missing Pascal Struijk for the rest of the season due to groin surgery. Patrick Bamford is also doubtful with a patellar tendon injury. Daniel James is back in contention after recovering from injuries.
What are the key injuries and absences for Norwich City? Norwich may be without top scorer Joshua Sargent, who sustained an ankle injury, and Ashley Barnes, who has a calf problem. Liam Gibbs (muscle injury) and Onel Hernandez (broken foot) are also unavailable.
Who are the key players to watch in this match? For Leeds United, watch out for Daniel James, Wilfried Gnonto, and Georginio Rutter. For Norwich City, key players include Jon Rowe, Borja Sainz, and potentially Sydney van Hooijdonk if he starts.
What is the historical head-to-head record between these teams? Leeds United have had the upper hand in recent encounters, winning their last two home meetings against Norwich. Overall, Norwich have won just two of their last 12 meetings with Leeds across all competitions.
Leeds Utd 
Norwich 
