Leeds Secures Premier League Championship with Late Winner
Manor Solomon clinched a dramatic stoppage-time goal, propelling Leeds United to the Premier League as champions with a 2-1 victory over relegated Plymouth Argyle. With Burnley winning 3-1 against Millwall, Leeds realized they needed a win to secure the championship based on goal difference, ending the season alongside Burnley, both on an impressive 100 points.
The on-loan Tottenham star Solomon received a through ball from fellow scorer Wilfried Gnonto, darting into the penalty area, outmaneuvering Nikola Katic, and striking low into the far corner, beating goalkeeper Conor Hazard.
Match Highlights
Leeds started quickly, winning a corner in the first minute that Hazard had to punch clear under pressure. Hazard made another crucial save in the ninth minute, diving to block Sam Byram’s downward header from a Solomon free kick. Just two minutes later, Brenden Aaronson failed to connect properly with a chance created by Jayden Bogle’s cross.
Plymouth’s first significant attempt came in the 14th minute with Caleb Roberts shooting wide from 25 yards. In the 16th minute, Argyle’s Mustapha Bundu came close, maneuvering through four defenders before launching a shot that went high and wide. His persistence paid off when he curled a shot that hit the far post and inadvertently crossed the line off Leeds defender Byram, giving Plymouth the lead.
Despite intense pressure from Leeds, they struggled to find an equalizer. Hazard denied Aaronson’s shot with a diving save, and a series of missed opportunities followed. Early in the second half, the tide changed when Gnonto leveled the score in the 53rd minute, tapping in Solomon’s low cross from the left.
Final Moments and Managers’ Reactions
Leeds continued to press, with Byram narrowly missing a header that could have put them ahead. However, Solomon would ultimately secure the victory and the title they had long desired. After the match, Plymouth manager Miron Muslic expressed pride in his team’s effort against the league’s best, while Leeds manager Daniel Farke emphasized the emotional significance of their championship win. Farke noted that it was a proud day for everyone associated with Leeds United.
As the season concluded with both Leeds and Burnley excelling, Farke extended congratulations to Burnley for their remarkable performance, acknowledging the competitive spirit that defined this season.
