Leeds United manager Daniel Farke admitted he was heartbroken for his players after their impressive performance ended in a 2-1 defeat against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
James Justin put Leeds ahead early in the second half, but goals from Riccardo Calafiori and Bruno Guimarães secured a comeback victory for the reigning Premier League champions.
Farke reveals half-time message to Leeds players
Leeds frustrated Arsenal throughout the opening 45 minutes, limiting Mikel Arteta's side to few clear opportunities.
David Raya was forced into saves from Gabriel Gudmundsson and Ao Tanaka either side of half-time before Justin fired Leeds ahead in the 54th minute.
Farke revealed he had been confident enough to predict victory during the interval.
“I told them at half-time if we keep going we'll win this game,” he said.
The German manager believed Leeds deserved their lead and praised his players for continuing to attack rather than simply defending their advantage.
However, Calafiori equalised in the 62nd minute before substitute Guimarães completed Arsenal's comeback eight minutes later.
Leeds boss praises performance despite Arsenal defeat
Farke admitted the result was difficult to accept given how well Leeds had competed.
“I'm heartbroken and gutted for my players, they deserved to travel back with points today,” he said.
“On the other hand I'm very proud of a top away performance.”
The Leeds manager acknowledged that his side could have been more composed in possession after taking the lead.
He also pointed to Arsenal's strength in depth, with Arteta able to introduce players capable of changing the match.
Farke felt neither goal resulted from a major defensive error, instead highlighting the small details that separate his side from title contenders.
“We're not in a position to speak about fighting for the Champions League or the title like Arsenal,” he added.
“I can't ask them for much more. No complaints.”
Key Points
- Leeds United lost 2-1 to Arsenal despite taking the lead through James Justin.
- Daniel Farke told his players at half-time that they could win the match.
- Riccardo Calafiori and Bruno Guimarães scored to complete Arsenal's comeback.
- Farke praised Leeds' performance and felt his players deserved at least a point.
- The Leeds manager identified Arsenal's superior squad depth and clinical finishing as decisive factors.
What's Next?
Leeds will look to build on their encouraging performance despite leaving the Emirates empty-handed. Farke believes the display provides plenty of positives as his side continue their Premier League campaign.
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