A late penalty by new recruit Lukas Nmecha secured Leeds United, who are newly promoted, a gritty 1-0 win against Everton in their Premier League comeback on Monday night.
Leeds controlled the first half amidst the electrifying Elland Road fans but failed to capitalize on numerous chances. Conversely, Everton didn’t manage a single shot, on or off target, in the first half.
Everton introduced recent signing Jack Grealish after the break, which improved their play, but a handball by James Tarkowski gifted Leeds a chance to claim victory six minutes from the end.
Nmecha, a free transfer before the season began, came off the bench to confidently score the penalty, ensuring Leeds, back in the Premier League after two years, started their season perfectly.
“On the field, it seemed like a penalty at the time, maybe influenced by the stadium’s roar,” said Leeds manager Daniel Farke.
“Lukas’ initial touches weren’t ideal—I was concerned because he’s usually a top penalty taker.
“I debated whether to suggest he not take it today. Thankfully, I refrained. He was composed and steady.”
In recent years, teams promoted from the Championship have often been relegated immediately, but Leeds’ performance suggests they might defy that trend.
Joel Piroe forced a great early save from Everton’s Jordan Pickford, and the Dutch striker nearly scored twice more in the first half as Everton struggled.
It wasn’t until eight minutes into the second half that Everton had a shot, with Idrissa Gueye sending one well over.
Even though Everton posed more of a threat with £100 million loanee Grealish from Manchester City, they still lacked finishing quality.
Leeds netted the goal their efforts deserved, despite Everton’s frustration over the penalty decision.
“It’s not a penalty,” said Everton coach David Moyes. “We didn’t play well enough, but the referees had a rough start to the season. I’m unsure of the rules now.”
With Sunderland’s win on Saturday, Leeds’ victory marks only the third time in Premier League history that two promoted teams have won in the opening fixtures.
