In the first match of the Premier League season, Leeds United faced Everton at Elland Road, ending in a closely contested 1-0 win for the home team. The decisive goal came from Lukas Nmecha, who successfully converted a penalty in the 38th minute of the second half.
Nmecha was undoubtedly the standout player of the match, not only scoring the sole goal but also making two attempts on goal. His performance was crucial for Leeds, giving them a solid start in the league.
On the defensive side, Gabriel Gudmundsson played a pivotal role, clearing four balls from the danger area, contributing to Leeds’ clean sheet.
Leeds’ head coach, Daniel Farke, employed a 4-3-3 formation, featuring Lucas Perri in goal; Jayden Bogle, Joe Rodon, Pascal Struijk, and Gabriel Gudmundsson in defense; Ao Tanaka, Ethan Ampadu, and Anton Stach in midfield; with Daniel James, Joël Piroe, and Willy Gnonto up front.
In contrast, Everton, managed by David Moyes, lined up in a 4-5-1 formation, with Jordan Pickford in goal; Jake O’Brien, James Tarkowski, Michael Keane, and James Garner in defense; Tim Iroegbunam, Idrissa Gueye, Carlos Alcaraz, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Iliman Ndiaye in midfield; and Beto leading the attack.
The referee for the match was Chris Kavanagh, ensuring a fair contest in front of the home crowd.
Following this victory, Leeds United sits comfortably in 7th place with 3 points, while Everton finds itself in 14th position, yet to earn any points. Leeds will face Arsenal in their next match, while Everton will host Brighton & Hove Albion.
Substitutions for Leeds United
66’ 2H – Willy Gnonto was replaced by Brenden Aaronson
77’ 2H – Joël Piroe went off for Lukas Nmecha, Daniel James for Jack Harrison, and Ethan Ampadu for Ilia Gruev
93’ 2H – Ao Tanaka was substituted for Sean Longstaff
Substitutions for Everton
70’ 2H – Tim Iroegbunam was replaced by Jack Grealish
85’ 2H – Carlos Alcaraz went off for Thierno Barry
Yellow Cards for Everton:
11’ 2H – Tim Iroegbunam (Unsporting behavior) and 17’ 2H – Carlos Alcaraz (Dissent towards the referee)