Leeds United secured 3 points; Daniel Falk: We defended every single one of their chances very well.

Leeds United secured a 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in their opening Premier League match of the 2026/27 season, thanks to a brilliant free-kick goal by Anton Stahel in the second half. Daniel Falk stated that this was a very positive start and praised the team for defending every chance created by the opposition very well.

In the 26th minute of the match, Harry Wilson received the ball and scored, but the goal was disallowed due to offside.

Leeds United won a free kick in the 88th minute of the second half. Anton Stahel took the free kick and scored directly, giving Leeds United a 1-0 lead.

Leeds United ultimately secured a 1-0 away victory against Nottingham Forest, achieving a successful start to their season.

Leeds United manager Daniel Falk said, "I am very happy. There really couldn't be a better start. To get three points in the first game, especially in such a difficult away game, and to win such a competitive and close match."

"At the same time, we also kept our first clean sheet of the season and had several new signings on the pitch. As we expected, it was a very close game. I think the whole game can be divided into several different phases. We may have had some initiative in the early stages, but Nottingham Forest played better in the final stages of the first half. Both teams pressed their opponents and created some chances."

Daniel Falk points out, "Both sides defended very well, and in terms of open play, there weren't many chances in the game, but the transitions between attack and defense and set pieces were certainly always threatening."

"The team has to be at its best in every aspect. The reason we were able to win this game is that we defended every chance created by the opponent very well in the final stages. In addition, Anton Stahel also seized the set-piece opportunity and scored the decisive goal with a brilliant shot."

In addition, Daniel Falk said, "I'm glad we were able to carry our near-perfect preseason performance into game day and ultimately get a very important 3 points."

Speaking about new goalkeeper James Trafford, Daniel Falk said, "He has an innate confidence and composure, which is exactly what we hope to see in him. He also played a decisive role; if we can go back to the dressing room with a clean sheet, then the goalkeeper's performance will be outstanding."

Image source: Internet