Leeds snatch last-gasp draw against Liverpool in thrilling Elland Road clash
Ao Tanaka’s stoppage-time equaliser earned Leeds a valuable point
Leeds United produced a dramatic comeback at Elland Road to secure a 3-3 draw against Liverpool, with Ao Tanaka’s stoppage-time goal sealing a valuable point for the home side.
In a game filled with twists and turns, Leeds demonstrated resilience to fight back against the reigning champions, building on their midweek 3-1 win over Chelsea and moving three points clear of the relegation zone.
Liverpool had looked set for victory after Hugo Ekitike’s quickfire second-half double gave them control. However, Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s penalty and Anton Stach’s strike brought Leeds back into the contest.
Dominik Szoboszlai appeared to have sealed all three points for the visitors with a late goal, but substitute Ao Tanaka’s dramatic equaliser in the sixth minute of added time ensured the points were shared.
Leeds manager Daniel Farke hailed the determination of his side and praised the Elland Road crowd for creating an electric atmosphere.
“Crazy, it's another magical night,” Farke said. “It's Elland Road. The ground was again rocking like no other ground probably in world football. Once this place is on it, it can be second to none. It was a crazy game."
Farke also highlighted the team’s unwavering attitude.
“Sadly, it had been two mistakes where we more or less assisted their two goals, but my boys have this attitude. No one's ever beaten and they always try whatever is thrown at them in terms of difficulties or adversity," he added.
The result sees Leeds continue to display their fighting spirit under Farke, as they maintain momentum in their bid to move further away from the relegation zone.
For Liverpool, the draw extended their struggles, having won just once in their last five league games. Manager Arne Slot admitted that the repeated setbacks are affecting his players.
“I think we're improving. Individuals are improving, performances are improving, but it's hard to take for these players as well. They're putting so much effort in and fighting so hard and not to get the result so many times, one after the other, I think we can understand that does do something to an individual and to a team,” Slot said.
Liverpool, who had lost seven of their previous 11 away league games, have now slipped further behind in the race for the top four. Despite leaving Elland Road unbeaten, this result will feel like a missed opportunity for Slot’s team.
“It’s not about me, it's what the players feel, what the fans feel, what everyone who loves this football club feels,” Slot said. “I see us doing many things well this season without the results. I can take a lot of positives from this game."