"Living the dream," was how Peter Ridsdale once famously described Leeds United’s thrilling run to the Champions League semi-finals during the 2000/01 season. The intoxicating atmosphere of European football at its highest level, brought out the best in David O'Leary's team as his side cut a swathe across the continent. For nine glorious months Leeds United really were the talk of Europe. This series of rarely-seen photos, a mix from the YEP archive, PA, Getty and others published courtesy of Varley Picture Agency, relive the adventure game-by-game. READ MORE: 19 memories from Leeds United's UEFA Cup campaigns
7. Leeds United 1 Barcelona 1, October 2000
Leeds came within 10 seconds of securing their place in the second phase of the Champions League and sending Barcelona crashing out. It took a goal from Rivaldo deep into stoppage time to deny the Whites after Lee Bowyer had scored Photo: Mark Bickerdike
8. AC Milan 1 Leeds United 1, October 2000
That headed goal on the stroke of half time from Dom Matteo proved sufficient for Leeds to get the draw needed to secure their qualification into the Champions League second phase. Photo: Getty
9. Leeds United 0 Real Madrid 2, November 2000
Ian Harte chases down Luis Figo as two goals in as many second-half minutes saw Real Madrid seal victory at Elland Road. Photo: Getty
10. Lazio 0 Leeds United 1, December 2000
The Whites thoroughly deserved the victory over the Italian champions in Rome. An Alan Smith goal after a moment of brilliance from Mark Viduka gave Leeds the win. Photo: Getty
11. Leeds United 2 Anderlecht 1, February 2000
A spectacular 30-yard free-kick from Ian Harte and a stunning goal from Lee Bowyer set Elland Road alight as the Whites survived a rigorous examination. Photo: Getty
12. Anderlecht 1 Leeds United 4, February 2001
Leeds ruthlessly overpowered a Anderlecht side who had won their last nine European ties on home soil. The win also propelled them into the quarter-finals with two group matches to spare. Photo: Getty