Farke and Glasner Left in Awe: ‘Absolutely Incredible’ Players Display Seals Leeds’ Emphatic Win Over Palace

Farke and Glasner Left in Awe: ‘Absolutely Incredible’ Players Display Seals Leeds’ Emphatic Win Over Palace

In a thrilling Premier League clash at Elland Road on December 20, 2025, Leeds United delivered a commanding 4-1 victory over Crystal Palace, propelled by a masterful performance from striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The former Everton forward, who joined Leeds on a free transfer in the summer, netted a first-half brace to become the first Leeds player in 22 years to score in five consecutive top-flight matches, matching a feat last achieved by Mark Viduka in 2003.

Calvert-Lewin’s clinical finishing proved decisive. His opener came in the 38th minute, pouncing on a rebound after Dean Henderson parried his initial effort from an Ethan Ampadu long throw. Just before halftime, he doubled the lead with a close-range finish following another chaotic set-piece. Captain Ampadu added a third in the second half, prodding home from a corner, before Anton Stach curled in a late free-kick. Palace grabbed a consolation via a Justin Devenny penalty, but it was too little, too late.

Leeds boss Daniel Farke was effusive in his praise post-match, calling Calvert-Lewin “one of the best English strikers” and labeling him “outstanding.” Farke, who has overseen a tactical shift to a 3-5-2 formation that has revitalized the team, highlighted the 28-year-old’s resurgence after injury-plagued years at Everton. “We are blessed to have him,” Farke said, noting his professionalism and impact.Palace manager Oliver Glasner, despite the defeat, echoed the admiration. Pre-match, Glasner had warned of Calvert-Lewin’s aerial threat and partnership with Noah Okafor, describing it as a “nice challenge.” After the game, amid frustration over his side’s set-piece vulnerabilities—exacerbated by a congested schedule including European fixtures—he acknowledged Leeds’ dominance, with Calvert-Lewin’s movement and finishing proving “absolutely incredible” in punishing the Eagles.

This win lifts Leeds six points clear of the relegation zone, boosting survival hopes under Farke. For Calvert-Lewin, now with six goals in five games, whispers of an England recall under Thomas Tuchel grow louder. At Elland Road, the revived striker is fast becoming a hero.