Leeds United are looking to defend an impressive record in the opening round of the Premier League season when they meet Everton at Elland Road.
Daniel Farke oversaw an unbeaten pre-season campaign, culminating in a 1-1 draw against AC Milan, to help build a sense of optimism around the club.
However, Farke’s squad remains incomplete as Leeds’ hunt for a striker continues. They are also in the market for a new signing on the wing, with Nico Gonzalez of Juventus providing one option.
With Jamie Carragher backing Leeds to stay in the top flight and a full house at Elland Road behind them, Leeds will be looking for a strong start to the season. And the Whites’ record from previous Premier League campaigns shows that Everton face an uphill task.
Patrick Bamford celebrates a goal for Leeds United vs Liverpool
Photo by SHAUN BOTTERILL/POOL/AFP via Getty Images
Leeds United defend impressive unbeaten home record
Looking back across Leeds’ 15 previous Premier League seasons shows that the Whites have a strong track record in their first game.
In total, Leeds have played 15 opening round fixtures, winning six, with seven draws and just two defeats.
However, Leeds’ record at Elland Road is even better, with five wins and three draws from their eight opening round fixtures at home.
Leeds’ Premier League Opening Round Record Played Won Drawn Lost
Overall 15 6 7 2
At Elland Road 8 5 3 0
The Whites’ only two opening-round defeats came during their last visit to the Premier League, as they suffered a 4-3 defeat in a thrilling match at Anfield in 2020 and a thumping 5-1 defeat at Old Trafford the following year, with a brilliant strike from Luke Ayling providing the smallest crumb of comfort.
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Now, Farke has the chance to extend Leeds’ excellent home form on the opening day with another win in front of a raucous crowd.
Alan Smith in action for Leeds United
19 Aug 2000: Alan Smith of Leeds United passes the ball during the FA Carling Premiership match against Everton at Elland Road, in Leeds, England. Leeds United won the match 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Michael Steele /Allsport
Alan Smith was the hero against Everton in the year 2000
Leeds have only met Everton once in the opening fixture of a Premier League season, when they hosted the Toffees at the beginning of the 2000/01 season.
The Peacocks kicked off one of the most famous seasons in the club’s history with a win, as Alan Smith scored a brace in a 2-0 home victory.
Elland Road saw a number of famous games that season, including Lee Bowyer’s famous goal against AC Milan, as they embarked on a famous run to the Champions League semi-finals.
Farke would be delighted if his team could replicate that result under the lights in Leeds’ 25/26 season opener.