Sheffield United v Leeds United: BBC pundit hails ‘Incredible’ Ao Tanaka
Leeds United secured a remarkable 3-1 victory against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane on Monday night.
Ao Tanaka scored the second of the three goals for the Whites as they came from a goal down to secure the three points.
With that result, the Elland Road outfit have now gone five points clear at the top and seven points clear of third place Burnley.
BBC pundit lauds ‘Incredible’ Ao Tanaka in win over Sheffield United
Tanaka started the game in midfield alongside Ilia Gruev and had a decent contest as he kept things ticking in the middle of the park.
However, the most important contribution from him was in the 89th minute when he put Leeds ahead when it looked like the game was heading towards a stalemate.
The visitors, while they did look threatening, failed to get out of second gear for most of the game, but their players did not give up the fight and were rewarded for it.
Speaking on BBC Radio Leeds, Newsome said on 24 February at 9:51pm: “Wow. What belief, what determination – incredible.”
Daniel Farke will be thrilled with the performance of his Leeds United players
Daniel Farke will be ecstatic with his side’s comeback against Sheffield United, a result that showcases the resilience and Premier League-caliber grit his squad possesses.
Trailing early after Illan Meslier’s error gifted Sheffield the lead, the Whites could have crumbled, but instead, they rallied as a unit, proving their mettle.
Tanaka’s 89th-minute goal sandwiched between goals from Junior Firpo and Joel Piroe, epitomised the team’s refusal to settle for a draw despite being stuck in second gear for much of the match.
This fightback, capped by a third goal, highlights a collective spirit that transcends individual mistakes.
Meslier’s blunder was quickly forgotten as the team unified when it mattered most.
| Team | Games played | Points |
| 1. Leeds United | 34 | 75 |
| 2. Sheffield United | 34 | 70 |
| 3. Burnley | 34 | 68 |
Farke will see this as evidence his Leeds players have the character to thrive under pressure, a hallmark of top-flight sides.
Going five points clear at the Championship summit and seven ahead of third-placed Burnley, Leeds demonstrated not just skill but the determination needed to win titles.
For Farke, this performance proves they’re not just promotion hopefuls but a team ready to compete with the Premier League’s best.