Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Sat 4 April 2026 18:40, UK

Leeds United’s chances of making an FA Cup semi-final this season could depend on how well Gabriel Gudmundsson is able to nullify Jarrod Bowen.

The Whites travel to London Stadium as they hope to continue their FA Cup run with Wembley in their sights.

Daniel Farke’s side already know well the battle ahead of them, having beaten the Hammers 2-1 earlier in the season.

However, their opponents have been in much better form since that October victory.

Ahead of Leeds’ game against West Ham, Farke will no doubt have pinpointed the areas of strength and weakness from Nuno Espirito Santo’s side, and it would be a surprise if Gudmundsson’s battle versus Bowen was not discussed.

Why Gabriel Gudmundsson has hands full in Jarrod Bowen battle

Everyone already knows that Bowen is West Ham’s talisman, but he particularly likes to play in the FA Cup and against Leeds.

With the combination of the two joining for this FA Cup fixture, Gudmundsson will no doubt have his hands full.

Bowen has eight goal involvements in his last 11 starts in the FA Cup – seven goals and one assist.

Additionally, he has eight goal involvements in his last nine starts against Leeds in all competitions – five goals and three assists.

So the battle between Gudmundsson and Bowen will certainly be an intriguing one, and it could end up deciding the game.

In the reverse fixture, the Swedish international did not have the chance to showcase his ability to lock down Bowen.

On that occasion the Englishman was on the left wing, battling against Jayden Bogle. However, with Crysencio Summerville a doubt, a return to the right wing looks almost assured this time around.

Leeds themselves also have a few injury doubts, with concerns around Anton Stach and Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s involvement.

Gudmundsson will feel confident about Bowen battle – here’s why

The Leeds fullback will have confidence about his chances at nullifying the threat of Bowen.

That is because Gudmundsson is fourth among Leeds’ regulars for ground duels won percentage, with 56 per cent.

He is second for tackles made with 61, behind Ethan Ampadu, who is on 69.

Although, he is also second in the squad for times being dribbled past with 25 and fifth for most fouls conceded with 30,

Overall, the battle between the Swede and Englishman is poised to be a defining one. Hopefully, it is the Leeds star who comes out on top.