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Highlights and coverage of the complimentary games in the Sky Bet Championship clash between Leeds United and Leicester City at Elland Road on Friday; goals by Connor Roberts, Archie Gray, and Patrick Bamford lead Daniel Farke’s squad to a remarkable comeback win.
Leeds initiated the competition for the championship crown, after suffering a 1-0 defeat to triumph over Leicester 3-1 and narrow the gap between the two teams to six points.
Wout Faes’ header in the 15th minute brought the Foxes close to the final 10 minutes of the 90, with Patson Daka receiving a controversial second offside just before the end of the game.
However, Leeds – who failed to make a single shot in the first 67 minutes – managed to make a stunning comeback.
Connor Roberts netted his inaugural goal since being loaned from Burnley in January, followed by a strike from teenager Archie Gray that deflected off Hamza Choudhury and Faes, ultimately finding its way past Mads Hermansen to ignite a frenzy at Elland Road.
Patrick Bamford, the substitute, had ample opportunity to increase the lead even more. He also assisted Daniel James with a late free kick, ultimately securing a ninth consecutive league victory for Daniel Farke’s team.
How Leeds stunned the elected champions
Leeds, with eight rotation wins under their belt, was expected to deliver a hit shock against Leicester, who were understandably reluctant to give up their long-held top spot.
This is definitely true. The two teams had equal opportunities in an intriguing beginning before an unforeseen contributor appeared and scored the first goal, easing the tension for those who support Leicester.
Daka sprinted diagonally towards the near post to retrieve the corner kick from Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. He then skillfully headed the ball towards the far post, where Faes was positioned to tap it in and score.
After that, Leeds took control, but had difficulty penetrating the Foxes’ defense. Despite having opportunities – Willy Gnonto encountered difficulties at the goal, and Crysencio Summerville’s last chance was met with an excellent block from Jannik Vestergaard – they ended the first half without a shot on target.
Leicester could have scored a second goal when Daka scored after Vestergaard’s header hit the post and came back into play, but referee Craig Pawson disallowed it for offside.
Farke: Leeds supporters can properly enjoy their weekend!
Daniel Farke from the University of Leeds:
Tonight is a fantastic evening for all those connected to Leeds United.
Claiming a ninth consecutive victory and remaining undefeated at Elland Road this season would result in an impressive set of record-breaking statistics.
The feeling and spirit are of utmost importance, as seen in the celebratory atmosphere throughout the entire stadium.
Following a period of challenging times, numerous letdowns, and days filled with pain, the significance for all those involved with this organization became apparent.
Experiencing a moment where there is a sense of unity among players, employees, fans, and the entire club.
We provide these accomplishments and outcomes. It is wonderful and I am grateful for our followers. You can definitely make the most of your weekend in a suitable manner.
Enzo Maresca from Leicester:
To be completely truthful, I did not verify, therefore I am unable to comment on the disallowed goal.
However, we were in control and dominated the game until the 80th minute when we finally scored the goal.
We generated numerous chances for ourselves, but ultimately it came down to the opportunities that we failed to capitalize on.
In the past 10 minutes, in this type of match at this venue, it is common for us to lose focus or for the opposing team to have a mental advantage after we concede a goal.
We are disappointed about losing points, but I am extremely proud of the personality we displayed while being here.
What’s next?
The upcoming games for both teams will take place during the fifth round of the FA Cup.
On the South coast, Bournemouth will play against Leeds on February at 19:30, while Chelsea will face Leeds at Stamford Bridge the following evening at 19:30.
Both will make their return to the Sky Bet Championship on Saturday, March 2nd.
Leeds will take on Huddersfield in a live match on Sky Sports Football at the John Smith Stadium at 12:30, while Leicester will welcome the struggling QPR at 15:00.
