Norwich City manager David Wagner has explained why he is confident his side can go to Elland Road and beat Leeds United on Thursday in the play-off semi-finals second leg.
Wagner watched his Norwich side fail to take advantage of playing at home in the first leg against Leeds as the two sides played out a 0-0 draw at Carrow Road, with Leeds probably coming closest to scoring.
Daniel Farke’s men had a huge shout for a penalty after six minutes and then had a goal hardly disallowed due to offside. Junior Firpo rolled the ball into the net and Farke believes Georginio Rutter was onside.
However, Norwich had opportunities through Josh Sargent and star player Gabriel Sara but they were only half chances as Farke’s decision to put Archie Gray in for Joel Piroe helped Leeds remain very solid.
But in his press conference after the match, Wagner shared why he is confident that The Canaries can go to Elland Road on Thursday in the second leg of the tie and produce what would be a bit of an upset.
Here is what Norwich’s German manager said immediately after the first leg:
David Wagner is confident Norwich can beat Leeds at Elland Road
One thing that will play into Wagner and Norwich’s hands is that Leeds are not at their best right now. While the Elland Road crowd is a game changer, the pressure is all on Leeds and fans could start to worry.
Especially if Norwich can steal an early goal and put themselves ahead in the play-off clash. But Norwich’s away record this season has been woeful, the 19th-worst away record this season and Wagner said:
“Not an automatic advantage to have the second leg at home. We know how to be super competitive. Fine with what I’ve seen, love to win, but I’ve seen enough to have belief, confidence in the second leg.”
Wagner shares what Leeds have that is ‘very good’ on the pitch
The German manager did admit that Leeds are well-stocked in terms of quality in attack. That is despite Georginio Rutter going through a poor run of form and Crysencio Summerville failing to make an impact.
Willy Gnonto had a good game for Leeds before being subbed in the 70th minute. Wagner feels that his side have taken a step forward in drawing with Leeds after losing to The Whites twice earlier in 2023-24.
“We kept their offensive individuals, very good players, quiet. This is a first step after losing the first two games against them. There are no secrets for either team. Organised, aware of each team’s strengths.”