MATCH DETAILS: Leeds held in incredible o… Read More.
Leeds held in incredible o… Read More.
Leeds United were held to a thrilling 3-3 draw in their opening game of the season against Portsmouth, despite dominating much of the match. Leeds entered the game with high expectations, having a full squad available and coming off a flawless pre-season.In contrast, Portsmouth had injury concerns and a less impressive pre-season, making Leeds the favorites on paper.The game began with Leeds in full control, hitting the woodwork three times within the first 15 minutes. Willy Gnonto, who should have scored from an excellent cross by Georginio Rutter, saw his shot deflected onto the bar.Shortly after, Ethan Ampadu’s header from a corner also hit the bar, followed by another close attempt from Ilia Gruev, whose free kick struck the post.
Leeds eventually took the lead in the 10th minute when Dan James was fouled in the box, and Pascal Struijk confidently converted the resulting penalty.Despite their dominance, Leeds started to ease off after taking the lead, allowing Portsmouth to gain a foothold in the match.The visitors took advantage of Leeds’ defensive lapses, equalizing in the 23rd minute when Louis Thompson’s pass found Sørensen, who shot past Illan Meslier. The goal seemed to energize Portsmouth, and Leeds struggled to regain control. Despite this, Leeds had chances to retake the lead, with Gnonto and Mateo Joseph coming close.Just before halftime, Portsmouth stunned Elland Road by taking the lead with their second attack. Regan Poole’s clearance fell to Lang, who unleashed a powerful shot past Meslier. Portsmouth’s goals were against the run of play, but they took full advantage of Leeds’ defensive errors.
Leeds responded quickly in the second half, with Gnonto scoring to level the game at 2-2. Leeds continued to press for a winner, but Gnonto missed another chance, and Joseph failed to convert from close range.Leeds seemed to miss an opportunity by not exploiting Dan James’ pace more after Pompey’s left-back was booked early in the second half. Instead, James was substituted along with Gnonto and Gruev in the 71st minute, as Leeds switched to a more attacking formation.Despite the changes, Leeds struggled to break down Portsmouth’s stubborn defense. Bamford, who came on late in the game, had a chance to score from a Junior Firpo cross but failed to direct his header on target.As the game entered stoppage time, it looked like Leeds might lose when Portsmouth were awarded a controversial penalty. Lang converted the penalty to give Portsmouth a 3-2 lead.However, Leeds refused to give up. Brenden Aaronson, who had a mixed reception from the fans when he came on, became the hero when he scored an equalizer in stoppage time.He had a chance to win the game moments later but missed, sending his shot wide after Portsmouth’s keeper closed him down.In the end, Leeds had to settle for a 3-3 draw. While the team showed positive signs, dominating possession and creating numerous chances, familiar defensive issues resurfaced. If Leeds are to avoid another failed promotion campaign, they will need to address these problems quickly.
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