Leeds United’s first game back in the Premier League since promotion ended in jubilation — and controversy. A second-half penalty, converted by Felix Nmecha, proved decisive as Daniel Farke’s side defeated Everton 1–0 at Elland Road.
The spot-kick was awarded for handball against James Tarkowski, sparking immediate protests from David Moyes, who marched straight to referee Chris Kavanagh at full-time. Everton will feel aggrieved, but the numbers told a different story: Leeds dominated almost every metric, racking up 21 shots to Everton’s 7 and posting an expected goals tally of 2.07 to just 0.55.
For Farke, it was the perfect way to announce Leeds’ return to the top flight. For Moyes, a worrying sign that his team remain short of creativity in the final third.
Nmecha Holds His Nerve From the Spot
The striker’s composed penalty was a fitting reward for Leeds’ relentless pressure. His performance was one of control and maturity, the confidence to seize the big moment.
Key Match Stats – Leeds United vs Everton (17 Aug 2025)
| Stat | Leeds United | Everton |
|---|---|---|
| Ball Possession | 54% | 46% |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 2.07 | 0.55 |
| Total Shots | 21 | 7 |
| Shots on Target | 3 | 1 |
| Big Chances | 3 | 1 |
| Corner Kicks | 7 | 2 |
source: sofascore match data – 18 august 2025
The data paints a clear picture: Leeds dictated the match. More possession, double the sprints, and a barrage of shots underlined their dominance. Everton, by contrast, created little of note beyond a couple of half-chances.
Analyst Verdict
From a tactical perspective, Leeds showed the intensity that powered their Championship promotion — aggressive pressing, direct attacking patterns, and the energy of a side determined to prove they belong in the top flight.
Everton, meanwhile, were flat. With just one shot on target, they struggled to test the opposition defence and looked overly reliant on moments rather than sustained pressure. Moyes’ fury at the penalty decision may be justified, but the overall display should concern him more.
Key Insights
- Leeds won their first Premier League match since promotion.
- Felix Nmecha scored the only goal from the penalty spot.
- Controversial handball call against Tarkowski decided the match.
- Leeds dominated xG (2.07 to 0.55) and shots (21 to 7).
- Everton created little, with just one shot on target.
What’s Next
Leeds face Arsenal next, looking to carry momentum from this dream start. Daniel Farke will want his side to show the same intensity and clinical edge.
Everton, however, must regroup quickly. Moyes will demand a reaction from his players, who risk falling into early-season trouble if performances like this persist.
Did Leeds earn this win through dominance — or were Everton right to feel robbed by the penalty call?
1 Comment (last comment by JamesLove)
First read message
By JamesLove 18 Aug 2025 22:12
We dominated the game, I felt Everton came a bit closer to something before the pen but didn’t deserve anything near a point. Happy to be back, let’s go Leeds
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