Leeds United produced a spirited second-half comeback to defeat Derby County 3-1 at Pride Park, booking their place in the fourth round of the FA Cup. Despite falling behind to a Ben Brereton Díaz goal, Daniel Farke's side responded with three unanswered strikes to progress.
Derby Seize Initiative After Penalty Save
The Championship hosts took a surprise lead just after the half-hour mark, capitalising on a major let-off. Leeds had been awarded a penalty when Lukas Nmecha was brought down by Derby goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterström. However, Joël Piroe saw his spot-kick superbly saved by the Swedish shot-stopper, sparking wild celebrations among the home support.
Derby's momentum carried them forward, and they scored the opener within minutes. A blocked effort from Corey Blackett-Taylor fell kindly for Ben Brereton Díaz, who fired a low drive into the far corner to give Paul Warne's side a 1-0 advantage. Zetterström continued his fine form with another excellent save from Piroe before the break.
Leeds' Premier League Quality Shines Through
After a feisty but goalless opening to the second period, Leeds' superior quality eventually told. The equaliser arrived just before the hour mark. Wilfried Gnonto blasted home from inside the area after a clever dummy from Piroe, levelling the scores and silencing the home crowd.
The turnaround was completed in swift fashion. Just four minutes later, Ao Tanaka pounced to score Leeds' second goal, turning in the rebound after Zetterström could only parry another Piroe effort. The quickfire double completely shifted the dynamic of the tie.
Justin Seals Victory on the Break
Leeds controlled the game comfortably for the final half-hour, managing Derby's attempts to find a route back into the contest. The victory was sealed in stoppage time as United broke rapidly from a Derby corner. James Justin applied the finishing touch to a flowing move, tapping in from close range to make it 3-1 and confirm their progression.
The result means Leeds have lost just once in their last nine matches across all competitions. As well as consolidating their Premier League position, they can now look forward to the FA Cup fourth-round draw. For Derby, a valiant cup run ends, allowing them to focus fully on their push for the Championship play-off places.
