Leeds United vs. Leicester City: Match Report and Highlights from Sky Bet League at Elland Road on Friday; Goals by Connor Roberts, Archie Gray, and Patrick Bamford Lead Daniel Farke’s Team to an Incredible 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 Patson Daka’s second goal was disallowed due to a controversial offside call just before the hour mark.
Leeds, who were unable to produce a single shot on goal for the first 67 minutes, managed to make a stunning comeback.
Connor Roberts netted his debut goal since joining on loan from Burnley in January, with young talent Archie Gray following up with a deflected shot off Hamza Choudhury, then Faes, before sneaking past Mads Hermansen to ignite the Elland Road crowd.
Patrick Bamford, the replacement, had ample opportunity to increase the lead even more. He also helped with Daniel James’ last-minute free kick, which ensured that Daniel Farke’s team achieved their ninth consecutive win in the league.
How Leeds stunned the champion-elect
With Leeds having secured eight victories in a row and Leicester understandably determined to maintain their long-held first place position, it was anticipated that this highly-anticipated showdown would ensue.
It definitely did. The two teams traded opportunities in an interesting beginning before an unforeseen contributor emerged at the start of the game, easing the anxiety of the Leicester Persuaders.
Leeds maintained their defensive stance, but faced difficulty in penetrating the Foxes’ defense. Despite having opportunities, such as Willy Gnonto’s attempt on goal and Crysencio Summerville’s shot that was expertly 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 that bounced off the woodwork. However, referee Craig Pawson ruled it offside.
The call was incorrect, as the officials determined that Hamza Choudhury had made contact with the ball while it was on the Zambia striker. However, upon further review, it was clear that Georginio Rutter had attempted to clear the ball, meaning Daka was not in an offside position.
Daka could have easily scored a second goal with 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 redirected towards him, and just three minutes later, 17-year-old Gray shifted the game in Leeds’ favor for the first time, with the assistance of two distractions.
In the 95th minute, the points were secured as James’ free-kick slipped under 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.
Having achieved their ninth consecutive victory, remaining undefeated at Elland Road this season, there are numerous record-breaking statistics.
The emotions and energy are of utmost significance. The vibrant atmosphere of the entire stadium was a testament to this.
The significance was evident for all those connected to this team, following a series of challenging seasons, numerous letdowns, and moments of hardship.
Experiencing a time when you sense a strong unity among players, staff, fans, and the entire club.
We offer these services and deliver these outcomes. It’s fantastic and I am grateful for our supporters. You can definitely have a fulfilling 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 be playing 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 be facing QPR at 3 pm.
