Leeds United kicked off their 2026/27 season with a narrow 1-0 victory against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, courtesy of another set-piece strike from Anton Stach. The midfielder had previously demonstrated his dead-ball prowess throughout last season, and his trademark free-kick proved decisive in an otherwise tightly contested match.
Leeds believed they had taken the lead after 26 minutes when Harry Wilson converted Jayden Bogle’s cross, only for the assistant referee’s flag to rule it out for offside. Although United started strongly in the duels, Forest created the clearer opportunities during a goalless opening period.
James Trafford produced a crucial stop low to his left to deny a powerful header, while Forest’s dangerous deliveries from wide areas saw another effort from close range strike the post five minutes before the interval. After the break, substitute Chris Wood was left frustrated when he dragged a shot wide on 66 minutes, having beaten Jaka Bijol to the ball on the edge of the area.
Tarik Muharemovic nearly made Wood’s miss costly moments later, forcing Matz Sels into a diving save with a looping header that goalbound for the far post from a cross.
Stach had endured an inconsistent performance until his decisive moment, winning the free-kick himself before striking it past Sels with immaculate technique.
James Trafford – Produced an outstanding save to deny a powerful header on 17 minutes. Distribution was mainly directed towards Calvert-Lewin and proved largely accurate, apart from two kicks that went straight out of play. Showed occasional uncertainty when dealing with aerial balls. 7
Jayden Bogle – Positioned himself very high up the pitch when Trafford had possession. Did not always enjoy the freedom he would have liked on the right flank. Performed reasonably well in screening his channel during the opening third. 7
Joe Rodon – Provided solid defensive cover but offered little going forward. Had mixed success when Trafford played the ball over to him along the touchline. Occasionally found himself caught between positions. 7
Jaka Bijol – Won numerous aerial duels. Coped well under pressure. Cut out passes on multiple occasions as the last defender. 8
Tarik Muharemovic – Adjusting to the speed of the game. Did an adequate job, growing into the match with several important defensive clearances. Compelled Matz Sels into an excellent save with 20 minutes remaining with a header. 7
James Justin – Had several loose moments, at one point completely missing a kick. His tendency to drift inside or lack of confidence on his left foot was noticeable. 5
Ethan Ampadu – Committed fully to challenges, typically winning them. Set the standard in this regard. Delivered some exceptionally flat long throws. 7
Anton Stach – Put his body about, occasionally too clumsily. Some of his distribution lacked accuracy and he did not enjoy his best afternoon before winning the free-kick that ultimately proved the winner. 7
Harry Wilson – Showed plenty of energy with several nice pieces of play, including for his disallowed goal. Constantly looked to position himself between the lines and play forward passes. Remained quiet after the interval. 7
Brenden Aaronson – Occasionally moved inside from his position. Glided past defenders with some success and won free-kicks or spread play effectively. 8
Dominic Calvert-Lewin – Worked hard at both ends, flicking on long balls and putting his head where it mattered in his own area. Showed decent footwork and excellent combination play. 8
SUBS
Sean Longstaff (82′ for Aaronson) – Introduced too late for assessment. N/A.
Noah Okafor (66′ for Wilson) – Assisted Justin diligently. Missed a promising counter-attack opportunity with a poor first touch. Drove into the penalty area to force Forest to retreat later on. Demonstrated some good dribbling skills. 7
MANAGER: Daniel Farke – Would have been delighted with the opening 20 minutes of turnovers and territorial dominance. Was frustrated at half-time having watched his side allow Forest some good opportunities. None were clear-cut chances, with Leeds restricted to efforts from distance or set-piece headers until Stach stepped up to secure the victory. Faced a dilemma over whether to make substitutions to win the match without risking losing it. Ultimately, his decision proved correct. 8