Leeds United secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Sunderland at Elland Road on Monday night, February 17, 2025, in a match that had major implications for the Championship promotion race. The win propelled Daniel Farke’s side back to the top of the table, two points clear of Sheffield United in second, and seven points ahead of third-placed Burnley with 13 games remaining.
A Game of High Stakes
This fixture was always going to be a crucial one, with both teams eyeing automatic promotion. Leeds came into the game knowing a victory would put them in control of their destiny, while Sunderland, who sat fourth before kickoff, were desperate to close the gap on the top two. The tension inside Elland Road was palpable, and for much of the game, it looked like Sunderland might come away with a vital win.
Sunderland Strike First
The Black Cats took the lead in the first half through Wilson Isidor, whose individual brilliance stunned the home crowd. The forward showcased quick footwork to get past Ethan Ampadu before firing past Illan Meslier, giving the visitors a deserved 1-0 advantage. Sunderland looked compact and organized, frustrating Leeds’ attacking players and limiting them to half-chances.
Daniel Farke’s Tactical Masterstroke
Leeds struggled to break down Sunderland’s stubborn defense, prompting Farke to make some bold substitutions. With time running out, he introduced Pascal Struijk and Joe Rothwell, a move that would prove to be a game-changer. Farke’s decision to bring on a defender when chasing a goal was questioned at first, but the German manager knew exactly what he was doing.
Rothwell, known for his deliveries from set pieces, played a key role in both of Struijk’s goals. The Dutch defender made an immediate impact, rising highest to connect with Rothwell’s cross and head home the equalizer. Suddenly, Elland Road came alive, sensing that Leeds could complete the comeback.
Late Drama: Struijk the Hero
As the game entered stoppage time, Leeds continued to pile on the pressure, desperate for a winner. Then, in the dying moments, Struijk struck again. Once again, it was Rothwell’s pinpoint delivery that found him, and the centre-back made no mistake, heading home his second of the night to send the home crowd into raptures.
The celebrations were wild, with Farke himself receiving a yellow card for his exuberant reaction on the touchline. Leeds had done it. A last-gasp winner secured a massive three points and put them in the driver’s seat for automatic promotion.
A Statement Victory for Leeds
This was more than just another win—it was a statement of intent. Leeds demonstrated their resilience, depth, and ability to respond under pressure, all qualities necessary for a promotion-winning team. While Struijk deservedly took the headlines, credit must also go to Farke, whose tactical decisions and substitutions turned the game around.
Ethan Ampadu, despite being beaten for Sunderland’s goal, played a crucial role in rallying the team. After the match, he was seen giving an impassioned pep talk to his teammates, urging them to push on and secure promotion.
Celebrity Reactions
Award-winning comedian Omid Djalili was one of the many watching, and he humorously took credit for Leeds’ turnaround. Posting on social media, he joked:
“Wow, Leeds United! Didn’t want them to lose before my gig on Sunday, saw they were 1-0 down at home against Sunderland so watched trying to send vibes. Last second winner, a massive three points, and Ethan Ampadu giving a pep talk to go win the league. Fabulous.”
Looking Ahead: Sheffield United Await
Leeds now turn their attention to another huge game, an away fixture against Sheffield United. With the Blades just two points behind, this could be one of the defining matches of the season. A win would solidify Leeds’ position at the top, while a loss could see them slip back into second place.
The stakes have never been higher, and if Leeds can replicate the fighting spirit they showed against Sunderland, their Premier League dream could soon become a reality.