Leeds United delivered a dominant performance at Elland Road on Saturday as they comfortably defeated Crystal Palace in a thrilling Premier League 2025 encounter. Dominic Calvert-Lewin continued his sensational goal-scoring streak, netting a superb double to extend his run to five consecutive Premier League games.

Leeds United Take Control with Calvert-Lewin’s Double

The 28-year-old striker showcased his clinical finishing, striking twice late in the first half to give Leeds a decisive lead at the break. England international Calvert-Lewin, who has been in excellent form this month, opened the scoring following a chaotic sequence in the box after a long throw-in from captain Ethan Ampadu.

Although Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson initially saved his first attempt, Calvert-Lewin was quick to react and found the back of the net. The striker then doubled Leeds’ advantage in first-half stoppage time with a precise header from another Ampadu throw, sending the Elland Road crowd into raptures.

Ethan Ampadu and Anton Stach Add to the Lead

After the restart, Leeds continued to dominate, with Ethan Ampadu scoring his first Premier League goal. The unmarked captain expertly converted a corner rebound, making it 3-0 and solidifying Leeds’ control of the match.

Crystal Palace briefly reduced the deficit when Justin Devenny scored a stoppage-time penalty, but Anton Stach ensured a memorable victory for the home side, converting a free-kick in the 11th minute of added time. Leeds emerged victorious with a convincing 4-1 scoreline, maintaining their unbeaten streak over the past four matches.

Leeds’ Tactical Brilliance Under Daniel Farke

Manager Daniel Farke’s tactical shift from a possession-based 4-3-3 formation to a counter-attacking 3-5-2 has breathed new life into the team. The formation has maximized Calvert-Lewin’s strengths as a classic target man, reminiscent of his Everton days, and has given Leeds a renewed fighting spirit in the Premier League.

Farke praised Calvert-Lewin’s form, calling him “one of the best English strikers in this league,” while emphasizing the importance of consistent performance throughout the season. With seven goals, Calvert-Lewin now stands as one of the Premier League’s top-scoring English players, alongside Phil Foden and Danny Welbeck.

Crystal Palace Struggle Amid Busy Schedule

Crystal Palace, meanwhile, continue to face challenges following their recent European exploits. Manager Oliver Glasner’s squad, heavily rotated due to a hectic fixture schedule including a Conference League play-off tie, could not cope with Leeds’ relentless attack.

Despite early opportunities, such as Eddie Nketiah’s shot saved by Lucas Perri, Palace failed to respond effectively. Devenny’s late penalty offered a brief glimmer of hope, but the Eagles’ congested schedule and lack of depth remain a concern as they navigate multiple competitions this season.

Player Ratings: Leeds vs Crystal Palace

• Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Leeds United) – 9.21/10 – Two goals and constant threat in the box
• Ethan Ampadu (Leeds United) – 8.71/10 – Scored first Premier League goal; crucial throw-ins
• Anton Stach (Leeds United) – 8.38/10 – Sealed victory with a late free-kick
• Justin Devenny (Crystal Palace) – 7.21/10 – Scored late penalty

Implications and Next Fixtures

Leeds United now move six points clear of the relegation zone, sitting on 19 points after 17 matches. The victory offers momentum heading into their next fixture against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on 28 December.

Crystal Palace, sitting eighth with 26 points, will aim to recover as they face Arsenal in the Carabao Cup quarter-final before returning to Premier League action against Tottenham Hotspur.

Conclusion: Leeds’ Resurgence

Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s remarkable scoring run and Daniel Farke’s tactical adjustments have reinvigorated Leeds United, offering hope of a strong finish to the season. With momentum firmly on their side, the Whites are proving to be a formidable side in the Premier League 2025.