Chelsea take on a Tottenham team today in a semi-final clash at Wembley, that will mean much more than just a return trip. However, with both sides thrashing it out for remaining European spots, a victory here could be a huge psychological boost ahead of the remaining five games.
The winners will face a Liverpool side that are languishing in eighth place, and would fancy their chances of picking up the trophy in May.
Chelsea have won 8 out of 11 games under Di Matteo, and no-one really expected him to perform this well after a poor spell at West Brom last campaign. In contrast, Spurs have won just once in their last eight, and talk of a title push was quickly brushed under the carpet.
Harry Redknapp may be on his way out of the club this summer, no-one truly knows whether he or the FA think he is the answer to Englands numerous problems. However, he has built a fantastic team at White Hart Lane, one that could easily fall apart should Chelsea or Newcastle muscle them out of fourth position.
After taking them into the Champions League, Redknapp believes the next step is to win the FA Cup, after a 21 year-stint without it, one that neighbours Arsenal are seemingly in the process of replicating.
Chelsea will be a tough nut to crack though, and we could well be in for a great game on Sunday as both sides look to end disappointing campaigns on a high. Alas, Chelsea do have Barcelona on Tuesday, but manager Di Matteo has insisted that all eyes are on Sunday, and that game will not impact on his team selection.
In the build-up to the game, we spoke to 21 year old Spurs fan Calum Lewis, and got his views on his team and the upcoming game:
1. Who has been your best player this season?
For overall effort, has to be Scott Parker, overall ability, Bale has often came up with game changing moves.
2. Which THFC player has most surprised you this season?
Probably Kyle Walker, wasn’t expecting him to play so well at his age
3. If you could take one player from CFC, who would it be and why?
N certain, Cahill or Terry, our defence has been woeful recently.
4. Where do you think you will finish this season?
4th, gotta stay hopeful! Hopefully this match will give us a kick up the backside for the remaining games
5. What will the score be on Monday, and scorers?
2-1 tottenham, Adebayor and Van Der Vaart for us, Torres for Chelsea!
Thanks again to Calum for his answers, lets hope he is wrong, you can catch him on Twitter @CalumJamesLewis
By Brad Smith
Follow @BrummieBrad