'A magic night' at Elland Road - Farke
- Published
Leeds United kicked off their 2025-26 Premier League campaign with a 1-0 win over Everton at Elland Road.
Whites boss Daniel Farke told BBC Sport "it was a really magic night" and a "top performance" from his side.
"We are happy and grateful we are allowed to present our supporters, who had to suffer a lot over the years," he said. "It was special and a really good day for us.
"We were dominant in the first first half and had 12 shots. That is outstanding for a newly promoted side.
"I was bit worried because we were so dominant and normally you score. It can be costly when you don't take your opportunities. Lukas Nmencha took his opportunity. It was hard fought."
On the penalty: "I haven't seen it back on telly. During the game, I got the feeling it was a penalty. There was an emotional influence by the roar of the home crowd.
"I was a bit worried as the check was so long, but if the check takes that long then surely you can't overturn it.
"I haven't seen it back so I can't judge it. I hope the referee was right."
On Nmecha taking the penalty: "I was a bit worried because I don't like a player who is just in the game to take them, but he is such a good penalty taker. I didn't want to stop him.
"Calm yourself down and he will do the job. He has suffered a bit in the past years, but he came up with the decisive goal.
"A good start is always crucial. The first win out of the way and the first clean sheet. We have to carry on and win many more points.
Did you know?
Nmecha became the first Leeds substitute to score on his Premier League debut since Alan Smith in November 1998, while he is the first player to score a penalty on his debut for the club in the competition.