Leeds United drew 1-1 with Manchester United at Elland Road, and Daniel Farke stressed the value of the result. Farke highlighted that his promoted side are now eight points ahead of the relegation zone,
and urged Leeds United fans to see the point as progress, despite frustration that a strong display did not bring a win.
The match turned shortly after the hour when Brenden Aaronsen scored, before Matheus Cunha equalised three minutes later. Cunha later struck the frame of the goal, while Leeds United forwards Noah Okafor and Joel Piroe both went close. Dominic Calvert-Lewin also hit the post in the first half during an open contest.
There were just 174 seconds between the two goals, exposing a Leeds United defence that had been tight in recent weeks. Even so, Leeds United are now on a seven-game unbeaten Premier League run. That sequence is their best in the division since a 13-match stretch between May and November 2021, underlining current stability.
| Match | Competition | Score | Leeds United scorers | Manchester United scorers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leeds United vs Manchester United | Premier League | 1-1 | Brenden Aaronsen | Matheus Cunha |
Farke admitted the contest lacked rhythm and fluency from Leeds United, who looked stretched by recent fixtures. Some regular starters were missing, and the squad showed signs of fatigue. Yet Farke still praised the group for competing with Ruben Amorim's side and maintaining resilience under pressure across both halves.
If you play Man United as a promoted side, it's always a good point, he told BBC Sport. It wasn't our best game, football-wise; it was a bit scruffy. You could see a few key players were out, and we were a bit tired today. Nevertheless, we found a way. We forced an opener,so for that I'm a bit disappointed, but if I calm down, I have to say it's a fair point. It's a good point, another point on our tally, and extend the gap a little bit. Resilience in a difficult game for us, but I'm still a bit disappointed it wasn't three points.
Farke added: We had to play with fire in the heart and cool in the head. It's difficult when you have such a schedule. We kept a clean sheet away at Liverpool, then two and a half days later everyone tells you it's the most important game in the last three years. Everyone is super excited. We always give everything, and also physically we go over the line. Today, that was necessary. We are on a good path.
As always, thank you #LUFC fans for your amazing support today! pic.twitter.com/ZvBUDIkkOeLeeds United (@LUFC) January 4, 2026
Across the ninety minutes, Leeds United created the clearer late chances and extended their gap above the bottom three. The 1-1 Leeds United vs Manchester United draw added another point to their tally, preserved important momentum, and supported Farke's view that the team remain on what Farke described as a good path.
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