Leeds United maintained their unbeaten start to the season with a famous win over Chelsea’s new-look team, putting on a performance that will give Thomas Tuchel nightmares.
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Chelsea, who spent more than £170 million on players this summer, were the architects of their own demise in the first half. Edouard Mendy gave Leeds the lead when he mishandled a backpass, allowing Brendan Aaronsen to pounce.
Four minutes later, Raheem Sterling gave away a free kick on the edge of the box, which Rodrigo converted after Jack Harrison’s delivery.
But Leeds also outfought their opponents, particularly in midfield, in echoes of the two clubs’ famous historical battles.
And it was their first Premier League victory over Chelsea since 2000, when Harrison scored after Daniel James’ cross was touched to him by Rodrigo.
At that moment, an already raucous Elland Road was in disbelief; home fans taunted their Chelsea counterparts, and manager Jesse Marsch punched the air in joy.
Chelsea had opportunities. Sterling curled wide in the first minute and had a goal disallowed, while £62 million signing Marc Cucurella was also off target twice.
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But when Kalidou Koulibaly was sent off six minutes from time for a second booking, it summed up Chelsea’s afternoon, allowing Leeds fans to bask in the euphoria of their team’s superb start to the season, which saw them move into third place in the table.
