Premier League: Leeds United overcome 10-man Manchester United 2-1
What's the story
Leeds United stunned Manchester United with a 2-1 victory at Old Trafford, marking their first league win here since 1981. The result was a major boost for Leeds in their bid to avoid relegation from the Premier League 2025-26 season. Matchweek 32 saw Noah Okafor scored both goals for the visitors in the first half, while Casemiro's header gave Manchester United hope of a comeback after Lisandro Martinez was sent off for hair-pulling.
Match highlights
Okafor's 1st-half brace hands Leeds United lead
Leeds United started strong, with Okafor and Dominic Calvert-Lewin proving difficult for Manchester United's defense. Calvert-Lewin was denied by Senne Lammens before Okafor scored the opener from Jayden Bogle's cross. He then doubled the lead with a deflected volley in front of the Stretford End. Despite their best efforts, Carrick's team couldn't find an equalizer before halftime as Martinez made a crucial goal-saving tackle off Ao Tanaka near the line.
Game shift
How did the 2nd half pan out?
In the second half, Sesko nearly pulled one back but his effort was cleared off the line by James Justin. However, Martinez's red card for hair-pulling Calvert-Lewin made things more difficult for Manchester United. Despite being a man down, they looked better with 10 men as Bruno Fernandes's assist set up a grandstand finish. But Leeds United held on to their lead despite late pressure from the home side.
Match impact
Leeds United take a massive step toward survival
The win was a huge boost for Leeds United, taking them six points clear of Tottenham with six games left. With Wolves and Burnley still to visit Elland Road, they are closing in on survival. Meanwhile, the match marked Michael Carrick's first home defeat since taking charge and missed an opportunity to tighten their grip on third spot.
Points
A look at the points table
Leeds remain 15th after 32 matches. They picked up their 8th win this season and own 36 points. On the other hand, United have now gone winless in three of their last 4 Premier League matches (D1 L2). United suffered their 7th defeat of the season. They remain 3rd with 55 points and are ahead of Aston Villa on goal difference.
Fernandes
Fernandes is involved in 25 Premier League goals this season
Fernandes is now involved in 25 Premier League goals this season. The midfielder made his 17th assist of the season (G8). The United skipper recorded his 68th Premier League assist (G70) in what was his 224th appearance. Overall, Fernandes has made 101 assists for United in all competitions from 321 appearances. Meanwhile, Fernandes has provided six assists for Casemiro in the Premier League this season. No other player has provided more than three for a teammate.
Do you know?
8th Premier League goal for Casemiro this season
Casemrio scored his 8th Premier League goal of the season. Making his 30th Premier League appearance, he has 8 goals and 2 assists. Overall, this was his 107th Premier League appearance. He has 21 goal involvements (G14 A7). In 155 matches across all competitions, he has scored 24 goals.
Information
Leeds record rare away league win over the Red Devils
As per Opta, Leeds recorded their first away league win over the Red Devils since February 1981 (1-0), ending an 18-game winless run (D7 L11). Leeds remained unbeaten against United this season in the league (D1 W1).