Leeds United celebrated their Premier League return with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Everton at Elland Road on Monday night.
Lukas Nmecha’s 84th-minute penalty, awarded after James Tarkowski handled inside the box, sealed the points for Daniel Farke’s side following a dominant yet wasteful display.
Everton, in spite of optimism after summer signings, created little of note. Jordan Pickford’s saves kept the visitors in contention, but David Moyes’ side lacked attacking invention.
The season had begun on Friday at Anfield, where Liverpool edged Bournemouth 4-2 in a thrilling contest.
Early goals from Hugo Ekitike and Cody Gakpo put the champions in control, before Antoine Semenyo struck twice for Bournemouth amid a pause for racist abuse directed at him.
Liverpool secured victory late on through Federico Chiesa’s volley and Mohamed Salah’s stoppage-time strike, equalling Andy Cole’s record of ten opening-day goals.
Elsewhere, newly promoted Sunderland returned in style, crushing West Ham 3-0 with strikes from Mayenda, Ballard and Isidor at a jubilant Stadium of Light.
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Tottenham made a flying start under Thomas Frank, beating Burnley 3-0 at home thanks to a Richarlison double and a Brennan Johnson finish.
Manchester City began ruthlessly, dismantling Wolves 4-0 away. Erling Haaland scored twice while debutant Tijjani Reijnders added a goal and assist in a commanding performance.
Arsenal edged Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford, Riccardo Calafiori’s header settling a tense contest clouded by penalty controversy.
Nottingham Forest also impressed, defeating Brentford 3-1, while three fixtures ended level: Aston Villa versus Newcastle (0-0), Chelsea against Crystal Palace (0-0) and Brighton with Fulham (1-1).
The opening weekend delivered drama, dominant displays and controversy, hinting at another unpredictable Premier League campaign.
