Alious
Daniel Farke believes Leeds United cracked a tactical code that could trouble Chelsea again — and his breakdown of the victory will do little to calm Enzo Maresca’s nerves.
Leeds stunned Chelsea with a 3–1 win at Elland Road, a scoreline that reflected complete control despite the London club dominating possession for most of the match. Farke’s men struck early through Jaka Bijol, doubled the lead with a brilliant long-range finish from Ao Tanaka, and sealed the result when Dominic Calvert-Lewin punished a disastrous mistake by Tosin Adarabioyo. Pedro Neto’s goal only briefly threatened a comeback.
Although Chelsea held nearly 70% of the ball, Leeds produced more shots, more efforts on target, and generally carried the greater threat. According to Farke, that wasn’t accidental — it *was the plan*.
The German manager explained that his team deliberately allowed Chelsea possession, but only in areas where they posed no real danger. He praised the electric atmosphere and the discipline of his players, saying the squad had worked tirelessly to reach the level needed for such a performance.
He noted that Leeds’ defensive structure, counterattacking efficiency, and physical intensity were central to their success:
**“We let them play where they can’t hurt us. You must take away their strengths, even if it means giving them the ball. Against elite teams, you have to adapt.”**
Farke acknowledged that as a newly promoted side, Leeds cannot always dominate possession and must instead neutralize opponents’ strengths, even if it requires tactical adjustments and formation tweaks. He hailed the players’ unity, fitness, and determination — qualities he believes have been building over recent matches.
The victory pushes Leeds three points clear of the relegation zone, though West Ham could narrow the gap with a result against Manchester United. Chelsea, meanwhile, stay fourth, trailing Aston Villa as they prepare for a tricky test against Bournemouth — now with Farke’s blueprint hanging over them like a warning.
If Maresca didn’t already know, he does now:
Opponents believe they’ve figured out where Chelsea are vulnerable.
Alious
