19 Aug 2025 : Leeds United made a triumphant return to the Premier League with a dramatic opening-day victory over Everton, as Felix Nmecha’s late penalty sealed all three points for Daniel Farke’s side at Elland Road.
Back in the top flight after a year in the Championship, Leeds showcased resilience, tactical discipline, and clinical finishing to overcome an Everton side that struggled to make the most of its opportunities. The result delighted the home crowd, who celebrated Leeds’ comeback to the Premier League in style.
The match began with Everton on the front foot, dominating possession in the opening 20 minutes. Sean Dyche’s men looked threatening on the wings, with Dwight McNeil and Jack Harrison delivering dangerous crosses into the Leeds box. However, the home defense, marshaled by captain Liam Cooper, stood firm and frustrated Everton’s forwards.
Leeds grew into the game midway through the first half. Crysencio Summerville tested Jordan Pickford with a curling effort, while Georginio Rutter’s pressing unsettled Everton’s back line. The breakthrough nearly came in the 37th minute when Dan James cut inside and unleashed a fierce strike, but Pickford reacted brilliantly to push it wide.
The second half offered a more open contest. Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin, fit again after an injury-hit season, had a golden chance to give his side the lead but dragged his shot wide from close range. That miss would prove costly.
In the 74th minute, Leeds were awarded a penalty after Rutter was brought down inside the box by James Tarkowski. Following a brief VAR check, the referee confirmed the decision, and substitute Felix Nmecha stepped up to take the spot-kick. Showing remarkable composure, the young forward sent Pickford the wrong way to score his first Premier League goal and put Leeds 1-0 ahead.
Everton threw men forward in the closing stages, with Abdoulaye Doucouré and Amadou Onana both testing Illan Meslier. However, Leeds held their nerve and managed the game intelligently, ensuring Everton could not find an equalizer.
The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations among the Leeds faithful, who had long awaited a return to the Premier League after the disappointment of relegation. Manager Daniel Farke praised his players’ fighting spirit: “This win means everything to the fans, and to start the season like this gives us great confidence. It was a tough battle, but we stayed organized and took our chance when it came.”
For Everton, it was a frustrating afternoon marked by missed chances and a lack of cutting edge in front of goal. Sean Dyche admitted his side must be sharper: “We created enough opportunities but didn’t take them. At this level, you get punished for that. Credit to Leeds, they were disciplined and took their chance.”
The victory sets a positive tone for Leeds’ campaign, reminding fans of the energy and passion that defined their previous Premier League stints. As for Everton, questions will again be asked about their attacking depth and ability to convert dominance into results.