Leeds United took a significant step towards securing their Premier League status with a dominant 3-1 victory over Nottingham Forest at Elland Road on Friday evening. The win lifts Leeds nine points clear of the relegation zone, putting pressure on other teams at the bottom of the table.
The home side wasted no time in asserting their dominance, with Jayden Bogle opening the scoring in the 26th minute. The full-back capitalized on a superb through ball from Ilia Gruev, slotting the ball past Stefan Ortega in the Forest goal. Just four minutes later, Noah Okafor doubled Leeds' lead with a close-range finish, his first goal since October.
Leeds' early lead was hard-earned, as Forest had several efforts saved by Karl Darlow in the first half. However, any hopes of a Forest comeback were dashed early in the second half when Dominic Calvert-Lewin chested in his 10th Premier League goal of the season, his first since October.
Forest's debutant Lorenzo Lucca pulled one back in the 86th minute with a powerful header, but it was too little too late for the visitors. Darlow made a crucial save in stoppage time to ensure Leeds' victory.
The result ends Forest's four-game unbeaten run and leaves them looking nervously over their shoulders as they face the prospect of West Ham closing the gap with a win against Burnley on Saturday.
Leeds boss Daniel Farke praised his team's resilience and adaptability, highlighting their ability to perform under pressure. "There are sometimes games that are, of course, also just three points but it feels a bit more important," he told Sky Sports. "And whenever the pressure was on and we had to deliver, we had to live it. This is a sign of a winning mentality."
Calvert-Lewin, who reached double figures for the season with his goal, expressed his desire for more. "Double figures is what you've got to aim for as a No 9 in this league," he said. "It's nice to hit that milestone but I'm hungry for more."
The victory was hard-fought, with Leeds having to contend with injuries and suspensions in their squad. Noah Okafor started in place of the injured Anton Stach, while Daniel James and Felix Nmecha were among the substitutes. Forest, meanwhile, saw Murillo and Neco Williams drop out of the starting lineup due to injury and suspension, respectively.
Leeds fans, who braved the rain to sing their team on to victory, will enjoy a weekend of celebration, while Forest fans will be hoping their team can respond positively in their next outing.
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