Report and highlights of the Sky Bet League match between Leeds United and Leicester City at Elland Road on Friday; goals from Connor Roberts, Archie Gray, and Patrick Bamford lead Daniel Farke’s team to an impressive comeback victory.
Leeds initiated the competition for the championship title by overcoming a 1-0 deficit and defeating Leicester 3-1, narrowing the Foxes’ advantage to six points at the summit.
Wout Faes’ header in the 15th minute gave the Foxes a lead in the final 10 minutes of the 90, but a second goal by Patson Daka was disallowed for being offside just before the hour mark.
However, Leeds, who were unable to produce a single attempt on target in the initial 67 minutes, discovered a method to make a stunning comeback.
Connor Roberts netted his inaugural goal since joining on loan from Burnley in January, followed by a diverted strike from teenager Archie Gray, courtesy of Hamza Choudhury. Faes also contributed before Mads Hermansen’s deflection resulted in a jubilant Elland Road.
Patrick Bamford, who came on as a substitute, had ample opportunity to increase the lead even more. He also helped with Daniel James’ late free-kick, which sealed Daniel Farke’s team’s ninth straight win in the league.
How Leeds stunned the champion-elect
With Leeds having won eight consecutive matches and Leicester determined to maintain their top spot, it was anticipated that this highly anticipated clash would ensue.
It definitely did. The two teams traded half-opportunities in a captivating beginning before an unforeseen contributor emerged at the start, easing the anxiety of the Leicester Persuaders.
Leeds remained resolute afterwards, but faced difficulty in penetrating the Foxes’ defense. Despite having opportunities – Willy Gnonto found himself in a tight spot in front of goal, while Crysencio Summerville’s shot was impressively blocked by Jannik Vestergaard – they were unable to register a shot on goal in the first half.
Leicester could have scored a second goal as Daka successfully placed the ball into the net following Vestergaard’s header rebounding off the woodwork. However, referee Craig Pawson ruled it as offside.
The call was incorrect, as the officials determined that Hamza Choudhury had made contact with the ball on the Zambia striker, despite Georginio Rutter’s attempt to clear it. As a result, Daka was not in an offside position.
Daka could have scored a header soon after, but for some reason, he missed the opportunity after Ricardo Pereira’s impressive run and pass.
He must have quickly regretted not taking advantage of this opportunity. Roberts tied the game after Rutter’s pass was accidentally redirected to him, and just three minutes later, 17-year-old Gray shifted the game in Leeds’ favor for the first time, once again with the assistance of two distractions.
In the 95th minute, the points were secured as James’ free-kick went beneath the wall and was then tapped in by Bamford, making for an enthralling final.
Daniel Farke from Leeds:
Tonight is a fantastic evening for all those connected to Leeds United.
Securing their ninth consecutive victory, remaining undefeated at Elland Road this season has resulted in numerous record-breaking statistics.
The sentiment and atmosphere hold even greater significance. It was palpable in the celebrations throughout the entire stadium.
The significance was evident for all those connected to this team, following a tumultuous period, numerous letdowns, and moments of agony.
Experiencing a time when you sense a strong unity among players, staff, fans, and the entire club.
We offer these services and achieve these outcomes. It is wonderful and I am grateful for our supporters. You can definitely make the most of your weekend.
What is the next step?
The upcoming games for both teams will occur during the fifth round of the FA Cup.
Leicester will be traveling to the southern coast to face Bournemouth on Tuesday, February at 7:30 pm. The next evening, Leeds will be playing against Chelsea at 7:30 pm at Stamford Bridge.
On Saturday, March 2nd, the duo will return for Sky Bet Championship play.
Leeds will play against Huddersfield at the John Smith’s Stadium, with the match starting at 12:30 pm and being broadcasted live on Sky Sports Football. In the meantime, Leicester will face QPR at 3 pm.
