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The draw for the semi-final of the Football Association Challenge Cup completed just moments ago at Stamford Bridge following Chelsea’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United. The competition usually sees bigger clubs reaching the final couple of rounds with few exceptions, and this year is no different, with all four spots occupied by top five clubs in the form of Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, Manchester City, and league leaders Chelsea.
We knew there would be no easy draws left, especially with Spurs having drawn Aston Villa, Wycombe Wanderers, Fulham, and Millwall up to this point. Today was basically just figuring out which powerhouse Spurs would have to get through, and it turns out it’s the league leaders in Chelsea.
We've been drawn against Chelsea in the @EmiratesFACup semi-final at Wembley. Game to be played weekend of 22/23 April. #COYS pic.twitter.com/NSM4sxj4lh
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) March 13, 2017
Spurs have already played Chelsea twice this season, both in league play. Spurs lost 2-1 at Stamford Bridge back in November, but returned the favor with a 2-0 victory at White Hart Lane to deny Chelsea the all time record for victories in a row in league play.
The other half of the semis will be contested between Manchester City and Arsenal. Manchester City are the only team of the four who have European competition to deal with, so schedule congestion may be a factor if they continue on in the Champions League.
The matches will be played the weekend of April 22/23, which means that Tottenham’s matchup against Leicester City will have to be rescheduled.
Spurs are headed to Wembley at least one more time this season. Let’s make this the first of two more visits.
Bring it, Chelsea.