Leeds United lost just their third league game at Elland Road since November 2025 on Saturday night. Going into the game, fans knew it was going to be a difficult match.
Up against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City who were in desperate need of three points to close the gap to Arsenal at the top of the table. Like every other home game, Leeds started like a house of fire, flying out of the blocks from the first minute. They could have taken the lead in the first half, but Dominic Calvert-Lewin squandered a huge chance when he was in acres of space.
The home side were punished late into the first period when Antoine Semenyo latched onto a cross from Rayan Ait-Nouri just minutes before the first half ended. The goal came as a huge surprise as Leeds United had Manchester City under pressure for most of the game.
Leeds United boss sent off in Manchester City aftermath
City took a backseat in the second half, inviting pressure from the home side. Leeds United obliged, with wave after wave of attack, but they lacked the cutting edge to breach Pep Guardiola’s defence. The game played out the same way for most of the second period, with City comfortable with holding on to take all three points when Leeds were fighting to pull a goal back.
Guardiola’s side resorted to time wasting tactics near the end of the game, committing cynical fouls and drawing cheap fouls in their own area. When the final whistle went a surprising incident occurred on camera. Daniel Farke could be seen angrily approaching match official Peter Bankes, who then flashed a red card at the German. Farke had to be pulled away by his own players, including captain Ethan Ampadu.
Farke’s mistake could prove costly
Any coach would be frustrated that their side failed to win a match they dominated. But Farke made a huge mistake confronting the referee; he gave Peter Bankes a choice and the referee sent him off. Now, he could be suspended for multiple games and could even face a ban if the league decide to investigate the incident. And that would be a huge blow considering the fixtures ahead for the Whites, who need their coach on the touchline. The Leeds boss will be lucky to escape any further punishment from tonight’s game.
