Leeds United had no problems on Monday night when they almost breezed past Manchester United. The game marked the first time since 2010 that the Whites had won at Old Trafford.
And the result came in a very surprising fashion; Leeds started the game with intensity, and looked very good in the opening few minutes. Their dominant first half performance was a big reason why they were able to beat Michael Carrick’s side at home. A brace from Noah Okafor in the first 45 minutes was enough to seal a win for Daniel Farke’s side in their battle for survival.
Everything from the tactics to the player performances went right for the away side to take all the points from Monday’s game. Roy Keane gave huge praise to Farke for getting his tactics spot on. The Whites are now unbeaten in their last five games on the road.
Leeds United star delivers on return to starting lineup
But the Leeds United boss was not the only catalyst; the return of Noah Okafor made a huge difference. The Switzerland international had been out of action for weeks after being injured in the FA Cup. He had picked up some strong form, with Farke even acknowledging his improvement. Okafor returned to the starting lineup after being declared a doubt for Monday night.
He showed how badly the team had missed him; his two well-taken goals were the highlights of the game. When Leeds got the two goal lead, it made the game easier for them. They controlled possession, and when Manchester United threatened to get back into the game, they held firm and defended for their lives in the second half to secure three crucial points.
Daniel Farke has missed Noah Okafor
Without Noah Okafor in the team, Leeds United lacked pace and directness in attack. Dan James has looked a shadow of himself, while Wilfried Gnonto has failed to rediscover his form. Against Manchester United, the forward was a nuisance, dropping deep, stretching the pitch with his runs in behind and drifting to the wide areas to cause trouble. The club has needed this attacking spark for a long while, and on Monday it showed. Farke will be glad to have Okafor back in the team, as he will be a big factor in the upcoming games.
