Mueez Ajao
– Leeds continued their unbeaten start to the season as they secured a famous win over Chelsea’s new-look team with a display which will cause Thomas Tuchel nightmares.
– Chelsea, who spent over £170m on players over the summer, were the architects of their own downfall in the first half. Edouard Mendy gifted Leeds the opener by miscontrolling a backpass, allowing Brendan Aaronsen to pounce.
– Four minutes later Raheem Sterling gave away a free-kick on the edge of the box, from which Rodrigo scored his fourth of the season after Jack Harrison’s delivery.
Also Read: Kane scores late to deny Chelsea maximum points at Stamford Bridge
– But Leeds also out-fought their opponents, particularly in midfield, in echoes of the famous historical battles between the two rivals.
– And they sealed a first Premier League win over Chelsea in seven attempts, dating back to 2000, when Harrison scored after Daniel James’ cross was touched to him by Rodrigo.
– An already raucous Elland Road was in disbelief at that moment; the home fans taunted their Chelsea counterparts and manager Jesse Marsch punched the air in wild joy.
– There were chances for Chelsea. Sterling curled wide in the first minute and had a goal disallowed, while Marc Cucurella, signed for £62m, was also off-target twice.
– But when Kalidou Koulibaly was sent off six minutes from time for a second booking, it summed up Chelsea’s afternoon, allowing Leeds fans to wallow in the elation of a superb start to the season as their team moved into third in the table.
🙌 WHAT. A. GAME.
— Leeds United (@LUFC) August 21, 2022
