Leeds United delivered a stunning 3-1 victory over Chelsea at Elland Road on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, igniting their hopes of Premier League survival and simultaneously putting a dent in Chelsea's title aspirations. The win lifted Leeds out of the relegation zone, providing a much-needed morale boost and easing the pressure on manager Daniel Farke.
The match began with an electric atmosphere, as Jaka Bijol's powerful header broke the deadlock for Leeds just six minutes into the game, marking his first Premier League goal. Leeds continued to press, and Ao Tanaka extended their lead with a well-placed shot from the edge of the box shortly before halftime. Chelsea struggled to contain Leeds' physical and direct approach throughout the first half.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca made two substitutions at halftime, bringing on Malo Gusto and Pedro Neto in an attempt to change the game's momentum. Neto's close-range finish in the 50th minute offered a glimmer of hope for the Blues. However, Leeds quickly extinguished any comeback hopes when Dominic Calvert-Lewin capitalized on a defensive error to score Leeds' third goal in the 72nd minute.
Despite Chelsea's efforts to respond, Leeds held firm, denying the Blues any further opportunities to score. The introduction of Cole Palmer in the 61st minute, returning from injury, provided a spark for Chelsea, but he couldn't convert his chance to reduce the deficit.
Leeds' victory was a result of their determined performance, capitalizing on Chelsea's defensive vulnerabilities. Bijol's early goal set the tone for Leeds, while Tanaka's strike provided a crucial cushion. Calvert-Lewin's goal sealed the victory and sent the Elland Road crowd into raptures.
The win represents Leeds' best performance of the season thus far. For Chelsea, the defeat marked the end of their seven-match unbeaten run across all competitions. The Blues now sit nine points adrift of the top of the Premier League.
