Leeds United faces Southampton with a slim chance of surpassing Ipswich Town for the second spot in the league. Dom Matteo has shared insights into what Daniel Farke’s team must focus on during Saturday’s game.
In the Championship’s final weekend, Leeds still holds a faint hope of clinching second place, contingent on Huddersfield upsetting Ipswich. Their fate lies beyond their control; all they can do is win against fourth-placed Southampton. This match serves as a prelude to a potential playoff final against Russell Martin’s team.
Currently, Leeds would face West Brom in the playoffs, with Southampton set to play Norwich. While winning is crucial for Leeds to apply pressure, it’s also significant for psychological advantage.
Should Leeds meet Southampton in the playoff final at Wembley on May 26, a recent victory over them at Elland Road would serve as ideal preparation. Matteo believes an early goal could intensify the pressure on Ipswich in the race for second place.
It’s worth noting that in the reverse fixture against Southampton, Leeds suffered a 3-1 defeat, albeit with a different lineup.
Despite the challenges, there’s a glimmer of hope as Ipswich required a late equalizer in their previous match against Huddersfield. Matteo emphasizes the importance of Leeds approaching the game without fear and focusing on securing three points.
“We can only control certain things and that is out of our control what they do. We have to make sure that we get the three points and then see what happens afterwards,” Matteo concluded regarding today’s match.
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