Leeds United took a huge step towards Premier League safety with victory over Nottingham Forest at Elland Road on Friday night
Jack Flintham Sport Central Audience Writer
21:57, 06 Feb 2026
Ilia Gruev of Leeds United celebrates with Brenden Aaronson
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Ilia Gruev of Leeds United celebrates with Brenden Aaronson
Leeds United took a big step towards safety in the Premier League with a 3-1 victory over Nottingham Forest at Elland Road. Jayden Bogle opened the scoring for the Whites on 26 minutes.
Ilia Gruev’s long ball forward was well brought down by Bogle who finished like a striker for his first Premier League goal of the season. James Justin then saw his initial shot saved by Stefan Ortega on 30 minutes but showed great composure to square it for Noah Okafor to fire home the second.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin then ended the game as a contest shortly after the break as he diverted Gruev’s shot in with his chest. Lorenzo Lucca bagged a consolation late on for the visitors.
Here are our ratings.
Starting XI
Karl Darlow - 7
A lot more composed than last weekend. Made a great save when the score was goalless.
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James Justin - 7
Showed great composure to square the ball for Bogle when his shot was saved. The standout defender
Joe Rodon - 6
Had little to do against a poor Forest attack. Was too casual with a pass which led to a Gibbs-White effort just before the break.
Pascal Struijk - 6
Played his part in a solid base for Leeds.
Jayden Bogle - 7
Having been played in by Gruev, Bogle finished it like a striker. Replaced in stoppage time by Bornauw
Ilia Gruev - 8
Played an excellent ball over the top for the opener. His cross-cum-shot in the second half was turned in by Calvert-Lewin.
Ethan Ampadu - 7
Commanded the middle of the park in the first half.
Brenden Aaronson - 6
The quieter of Leeds’ attackers. Did well to beat Ola Aina and Elliot Anderson with the former lucky not to be booked. Subbed for the returning Dan James.
Gabriel Gudmundsson - 7
Tormented Zach Abbott in the opening ten minutes but quietened as the first half wore on.
Noah Okafor - 7
He could not miss when Justin squared the ball, the goal will have done wonders for his confidence. Replaced by Longstaff with the game won.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin - 7
Quiet first half but nearly opened the scoring when his bullet header hit the bar. Made up for it in the second with quick reactions to make it three.
Substitutes
Dan James - 6
Produced a tempting cross which Calvert-Lewin couldn't get on the end of.
Sean Longstaff - 6
Perfectly fine cameo.
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Sebastiaan Bornauw - N/A