Nottingham Forest vs Leeds United ended with a dramatic 1-0 victory for Leeds United as Anton Stach scored an 88th-minute free-kick to give Daniel Farke’s side a winning start to the 2026-27 Premier League season.
The closely contested match at the City Ground appeared destined to finish goalless before Stach produced a decisive moment late in the game. The result means Oliver Glasner’s first Premier League match as Nottingham Forest manager ended in defeat.
Nottingham Forest 0-1 Leeds United: Final Score
Final score: Nottingham Forest 0-1 Leeds United
Half-time: Nottingham Forest 0-0 Leeds United
Goal: Anton Stach 88′
Leeds secured all three points after a disciplined performance, while Forest were left frustrated after creating several opportunities without finding the net.
Anton Stach Delivers Late Winner
The decisive moment came in the 88th minute when Stach won a free-kick following a challenge from Nikola Milenkovic.
The Leeds midfielder stepped up and produced an excellent effort, curling the ball over the Forest wall and past goalkeeper Matz Sels at the near post.
Stach’s set-piece quality proved crucial in a match where both teams struggled to create consistent chances from open play.
The goal was particularly impressive given Stach’s recent record from distance and direct free-kicks. His ability to produce a moment of quality when Leeds needed it most ultimately decided the contest.
Nottingham Forest Miss Chances
Forest had opportunities to score but were unable to capitalize.
Harry Wilson appeared to have put Leeds ahead before the half-hour mark after connecting with Jayden Bogle’s low delivery. However, the effort was ruled out for offside.
Forest responded strongly before half-time, with Jair Cunha coming close after heading against the post during a scramble inside the Leeds penalty area.
Igor Jesus also threatened after the restart when he headed wide from an Ola Aina cross.
Despite those opportunities, Forest could not find a breakthrough, and Leeds eventually punished them with Stach’s late free-kick.
James Trafford Impresses on Leeds Debut
New Leeds goalkeeper James Trafford made an important contribution during his first Premier League appearance for the club.
Trafford produced a strong diving save to deny Igor Jesus early in the match, helping Leeds survive one of Forest’s better attacking moments.
Tarik Muharemovic also made his presence felt, particularly in the air. His second-half header forced Sels into action as Leeds gradually became more dangerous.
Harry Wilson was another eye-catching debutant. The former Fulham attacker was involved in Leeds’ disallowed goal and showed signs of becoming an important creative player for Farke.
Oliver Glasner’s Nottingham Forest Start
Oliver Glasner’s first Premier League match in charge of Nottingham Forest ended with a narrow loss.
The Austrian was appointed during the summer as Forest looked for greater stability following a turbulent managerial period. He previously enjoyed considerable success at Crystal Palace and will now attempt to build a consistent team at the City Ground.
Forest deployed a back-three system featuring Nikola Milenkovic, Murillo and Jair Cunha.
The performance offered some encouraging signs, but the lack of a finishing touch will concern Glasner as Forest prepare for the matches ahead.
Leeds United Make Winning Start
For Daniel Farke, the victory represents an excellent beginning to the new Premier League campaign.
Leeds invested heavily during the summer, bringing in players including James Trafford, Tarik Muharemovic and Harry Wilson. All three started at the City Ground and contributed to a composed away performance.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin remains another key part of Leeds’ attacking plans, while Wilson’s creativity could provide an additional threat throughout the season.
The result also gives Leeds confidence after a positive pre-season.
Nottingham Forest vs Leeds Head-to-Head
Forest entered the match with an impressive home record against Leeds.
The home side had won its previous four league meetings with Leeds at the City Ground and was unbeaten in its previous 14 top-flight home games against the club, recording seven wins and seven draws.
Leeds ended that impressive run with Saturday’s victory.
What’s Next for Nottingham Forest and Leeds?
The two sides will meet again just three days after their Premier League encounter.
Nottingham Forest and Leeds United are scheduled to face each other at the City Ground on Tuesday, August 25, in the second round of the Carabao Cup. Kick-off is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. BST.
Forest will be looking for an immediate response, while Leeds will hope to maintain their momentum after securing three points in their league opener.
Nottingham Forest vs Leeds United Result: Key Takeaway
Leeds United secured a memorable 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest thanks to Anton Stach’s superb 88th-minute free-kick.
Forest had chances throughout the game but could not convert them, while Leeds remained patient and eventually found the decisive breakthrough.
The victory gives Daniel Farke’s team a perfect start to the 2026-27 Premier League campaign, while Oliver Glasner will have to wait for his first league win as Nottingham Forest manager.
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