In a thrilling match, Leeds United took a significant step towards Premier League survival with a 2-1 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford, marking their first league win at the stadium since 1981. Noah Okafor scored twice in the first half, and despite being reduced to 10 men after Lisandro Martinez's red card, Manchester United threatened a comeback with Casemiro's header. However, Leeds managed to hold on, with the win moving them six points clear of Tottenham and edging closer to survival.
Leeds played with determination from the start, with Okafor and Dominic Calvert-Lewin proving too formidable for Manchester United's defense. Calvert-Lewin was denied early on, but Okafor calmly converted Jayden Bogle's cross for the opener and then scored a deflected volley for the second goal. Manchester United had not played for 24 days prior and struggled, with Martinez's return being marked by a desperate challenge to keep out Ao Tanaka.
The second half saw Benjamin Sesko go close, but Martinez's red card, given for pulling Calvert-Lewin's hair, made the task more difficult for Manchester United. Despite looking better with 10 men and Bruno Fernandes' assist setting up a potential comeback, Leeds secured the win. Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick expressed his disappointment, calling the red card decision 'shocking' and stating that his team did not start the game well. Leeds United boss Daniel Farke was pleased with the win, noting that it was a big step forward and gave his team confidence.
The match highlighted the need for Manchester United to overhaul their midfield, with the partnership between Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro being bullied by Leeds' attackers.