Leeds United ended their five-match winless run in the Premier League with a 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Elland Road on Saturday, courtesy of a late strike from Noah Okafor.
The Switzerland international scored in the 79th minute after coming off the bench, combining with fellow substitute Harry Wilson to secure all three points for Daniel Farke’s side.
The encounter was largely dominated by Leeds, who created several opportunities, while Tottenham struggled to produce a convincing attacking display despite enjoying more possession.
The first half was overshadowed by two controversial VAR decisions. Leeds were denied a penalty after Matheus Fernandes appeared to handle the ball, with the officials ruling that the contact did not constitute an offence.
There was further controversy when Jayden Bogle’s challenge on Mathys Tel left the Tottenham forward injured.
Following a lengthy VAR review for possible serious foul play, the Leeds defender escaped a red card.
Tel was subsequently forced off in the 43rd minute and replaced by Dominic Solanke.
Leeds increased their attacking pressure after the break, with Sean Longstaff forcing a good save from goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky.
Ao Tanaka also fired over, while Lukas Nmecha struck the post from an effort that was later ruled offside.
Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi introduced several substitutes, including Dejan Kulusevski, Conor Gallagher and Rodrigo Bentancur, in an attempt to change the contest. However, the hosts remained the more threatening side.
Their persistence eventually paid off when Wilson controlled a throw-in from Melvin Bard inside the penalty area before laying the ball into Okafor’s path.
The forward took a touch before firing past Kinsky into the bottom corner.
The goal was subjected to a VAR check over a possible handball by Wilson in the build-up, but the officials found no infringement and allowed it to stand.
Tottenham pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages but could not break down the Leeds defence as the hosts held on for their second league victory of the campaign.
The result ended Leeds’ five-game winless streak and left them 12th in the table with 11 points from nine matches, while Tottenham remained ninth with 12 points.
