Lukas Nmecha's ice-cool penalty fires Leeds to dream Premier League return

The Whites, back in the top flight after clinching the Championship title last season with a haul of 95 goals, dominated proceedings but struggled to find a breakthrough until the 84th minute.

Anton Stach's shot struck the arm of Everton defender James Tarkowski in the box, leading to a lengthy VAR check before referee Chris Kavanagh awarded the spot-kick. Nmecha, making his debut, stepped up and slotted the ball into the bottom corner past Jordan Pickford, sending the home crowd into raptures.

This win marks just the third time in Premier League history that two of the three promoted sides have triumphed on the opening weekend. Everton, meanwhile, have now suffered defeats in their first match for four straight seasons, extending a frustrating streak.

Leeds boss Daniel Farke admitted his side rode their luck with the decisive call. "I have not watched it back, on the field it felt like it was a penalty," he said. "I was a bit worried as it was checked quite long. Thank God it stood. I have to watch it back to judge it properly."

Everton manager David Moyes described the penalty as "harsh," highlighting the controversy surrounding Tarkowski's handball.

Farke reserved special praise for Nmecha's composure under pressure. "The first two or three touches of Lukas were not spot on. I was a bit worried," he said.

"The first touches were not great. I was thinking about saying, 'today, perhaps is not the day to take'. He was ice-cold and calm. He is a top guy and a really good finisher."

The match burst into life early, with Leeds' high-pressing style causing Everton problems. Joel Piroe forced a sharp save from Pickford at close range, while Ao Tanaka headed across the six-yard box instead of shooting. Wingers Daniel James and Wilfried Gnonto terrorized the Toffees' defence, with Gnonto firing narrowly over from distance before the break.

After the interval, Gnonto twice went close again, but Everton held firm. The visitors introduced new signing Jack Grealish with 20 minutes left in a bid to snatch a goal against the run of play. Carlos Alcaraz tested Leeds goalkeeper Lucas Perri with a low drive, but Tanaka blazed over at the other end.

As time ebbed away, the penalty proved the turning point, securing three vital points for Farke's men.

The Leeds faithful created a fortress-like atmosphere, which the manager hailed post-match. "Of course, for newly promoted sides it has to become a fortress," Farke said.

"I am quite humble and grateful that we are able to celebrate. It is great to see the joy and pride in their eyes. It is great to give the supporters who are so emotional and care so much about their amazing club. Grateful that you can help a little bit and give them this experience."

Looking ahead to the transfer window, Farke emphasized the need for more attacking depth. "In the offence, it would be good to have a few more options available," he said.

"To be ready for a long Premier League season we definitely need a bit more quality up front. At this level, you know bringing players in who improve our squad is costly. Thank God we have ambitious owners. We won't do anything stupid. It is not about the sum of money, you have to spend it wisely."

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