The hosts drew first blood after just six minutes when Jaka Bijol powered home a header from a well-delivered corner. The lead was doubled just before half-time thanks to a stunning long-range strike by Ao Tanaka, giving Leeds a comfortable 2–0 cushion at the break.
Chelsea showed signs of life early in the second half when Pedro Neto, introduced as a substitute, reduced the deficit five minutes after the restart. However, just when a comeback seemed possible, the Blues gifted Leeds a third goal thanks to a defensive error — Dominic Calvert-Lewin was there to finish and seal a convincing win for the hosts.
The loss marks a harsh setback for Chelsea, who had come into the match on a run of good form. Their manager Enzo Maresca did not mince words afterwards, describing the performance as “very poor” and admitting that Leeds deserved the victory after outplaying his side in virtually every aspect of the game.
Beyond the pride, the defeat has tangible consequences. Chelsea slip to fourth place in the league standings, now nine points behind leaders Arsenal, and their title ambitions take a substantial hit. Meanwhile, Leeds’ performance — backed by two first-time Premier League goals from Bijol and Tanaka — lifts them out of the relegation zone and gives new life to their season.
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