Leeds United secured a crucial 3-1 victory over Nottingham Forest at Elland Road, with a clinical first-half performance setting the tone.
Leeds United delivered a commanding performance, securing a resounding 3-1 victory over Nottingham Forest in a pivotal Premier League clash on February 6, 2026. Goals from Jayden Bogle, Noah Okafor, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin sealed the points for the home side.
This highly anticipated encounter saw two teams level on points before kickoff, with Leeds sitting 16th and Forest 17th in the Premier League table. Both sides desperately sought to widen the gap from the relegation zone, making every point vital in their campaign.
Leeds started brightly, pressing high and creating early opportunities. The breakthrough arrived in the 26th minute when Jayden Bogle connected with Ilia Gruev's pinpoint cross. Bogle expertly guided his header past goalkeeper Stefan Ortega, igniting the Elland Road faithful.
Just four minutes later, Leeds doubled their advantage with a swift attack. James Justin surged down the flank and delivered a low, dangerous ball into the penalty area. Noah Okafor was on hand to slot home from close range in the 30th minute.
Nottingham Forest struggled to gain a foothold in the match, absorbing significant pressure as Leeds continued their relentless attack. Their efforts to respond were repeatedly thwarted by a well-organised Leeds defence, and the home side took a commanding two-goal lead into the halftime interval.
Trailing by two goals, Nottingham Forest faced a significant challenge at halftime. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo would have demanded a more urgent and structured response from his players to turn the tide. Leeds, meanwhile, aimed to maintain their intensity and control.
Leeds wasted no time extending their lead after the restart. In the 49th minute, Ilia Gruev notched his second assist of the game. He threaded a superb pass to Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who finished clinically to make it 3-0, effectively putting the game beyond Forest's reach.
Forest responded with tactical substitutions in the 54th minute, bringing on Nicolás Domínguez and Igor Jesus. They looked to inject fresh attacking impetus into their struggling midfield and forward line, hoping to disrupt Leeds' rhythm and find a way back into the contest.
The match grew more physical as both teams battled for control. Noah Okafor received a yellow card for Leeds in the 61st minute for a tripping offence. Shortly after, Forest’s Idrissa Sangare was booked for roughing in the 62nd minute, reflecting the game's increasing intensity.
Forest eventually found a consolation goal in the 86th minute, though it was too late to spark a full comeback. Substitute Omari Hutchinson provided a clever assist to Lorenzo Lucca, who expertly converted his chance. This late strike proved merely academic for the visitors.
