Leeds United 2–1 West Ham United: Aaronson and Rodon strike early as Hammers’ struggles deepen

Leeds United returned to winning ways with a composed 2–1 victory over West Ham United under the Elland Road lights — a result that piles even more pressure on Nuno Espírito Santo, whose side have now lost seven of their opening nine Premier League matches.

The hosts made the perfect start through Brenden Aaronson and Joe Rodon, punishing another sluggish first half from the visitors. Despite Mateus Fernandes’ late consolation, it was another frustrating night for a West Ham team badly short on rhythm and confidence.

It took just three minutes for Leeds to set the tone. Jayden Bogle whipped in a cross that was parried by Alphonse Areola, and Aaronson reacted quickest to turn home from close range — his third goal of the season.

By the 15th minute, Leeds had doubled their advantage. Sean Longstaff’s curling corner was met by Joe Rodon, who escaped Lucas Paquetá’s marking to power a header beyond Areola.

West Ham’s misery deepened moments later when Ollie Scarles suffered a suspected dislocated shoulder after landing awkwardly. His replacement, Callum Wilson, struggled to influence the game as Leeds’ energy and structure smothered the visitors’ possession.

VAR denied West Ham a route back when Paquetá’s thunderous strike was ruled offside — a moment that summed up their evening in front of goal.

West Ham controlled long spells of the ball but offered little incision. Leeds, by contrast, were incisive and composed. Noah Okafor and Jack Harrison kept stretching the visitors’ defence, while Ethan Ampadu shielded the back line superbly.

Even when the Hammers saw more of the ball in the second half, they rarely looked like scoring until Mateus Fernandes’ stoppage-time header from Jarrod Bowen’s cross. It was too late to spark a comeback.

Leeds’ xG of 1.58 compared to West Ham’s 0.63 reflected the gulf in quality and threat across 90 minutes.

This was Leeds United at their most efficient — smart, energetic, and clinical in the final third. For West Ham, the issues go far deeper than bad luck. The team’s defensive shape looks fragile, while their midfield continues to struggle for balance.

With Newcastle United and Burnley visiting the Hill Dickinson Stadium next, Nuno Espírito Santo faces two must-win fixtures before the November international break.

Leeds, meanwhile, climb into the top half of the table and look every bit a side growing in confidence under Farke.

Leeds United travel to the Amex Stadium to face Brighton on November 1, aiming to build on their strong home form. West Ham United, meanwhile, host Newcastle United a day later — a fixture that already feels must-win for Nuno Espírito Santo.