Leeds United returned from the international break on Friday night with a crucial 2-0 win over Sheffield United at Elland Road, marking a significant victory against a fellow promotion contender.
After a goalless first half, Leeds stepped up their game in the second half. Pascal Struijk broke the deadlock in the 69th minute, and Mateo Joseph sealed the victory with a late goal in the 90th minute, securing all three points.
Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell were likely Leeds’ two standout performers in their victory over Sheffield United. Tanaka played all 90 minutes while recording 89 touches, completing 67 of 75 passes and one key pass.
Opta stat highlights impressive Ao Tanaka performance
Jonny Cooper from Opta highlighted a remarkable stat that shows how well Tanaka has adapted to his environment at Leeds. Tanaka has made 175 passes in his first three starts for Leeds United, the highest number recorded by a Leeds player in their opening three league matches since the 2013-14 season, per Opta.
Ao Tanaka has completed 175 passes in his three Leeds United starts. That is the most by a Leeds player in their first three league starts that Opta has on record since 2013-14. #lufc pic.twitter.com/8un0GMZILG
— Jonny Cooper (@JRCooper26) October 19, 2024
Manager Daniel Farke mentioned that Tanaka and Rothwell have had to adjust their style because of the injuries to Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev, and he’s really pleased with how well they’ve managed to do that.
“Their best performance in this combination,” Farke said at his press conference. “We need this against a good side. No, forget Rothwell has hardly played 90 minutes for two years. A more attacking minded player.
“Tanaka the same. They have to be more disciplined. Had to adapt the system and be more dominant with the ball an careful with our passes because we don’t have the same protection in front of defence.
“We worked a lot with them individually. Improved from game to game. Ampadu and Gruev will be welcomed back because relying on tonight’s two would be too much for 46 games.”
Leeds need to regroup quickly as they take on Watford this Tuesday night, following the latter’s Saturday loss to Luton Town. The Whites are pushing for a second straight win to retake second place as the competition heats up after Burnley leaped over them following their Saturday victory over Sheffield Wednesday.
