Feb 18 (V7N) - Leeds United took a crucial step towards returning to the Premier League with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Sunderland at Elland Road. The match saw Pascal Struijk emerge as the hero, scoring both goals for Leeds, including a dramatic winner in the 95th minute. Despite Sunderland's Wilson Isidor initially giving his team the lead, Leeds' late resurgence keeps them seven points clear of third-placed Burnley in the Championship standings. Meanwhile, in other football news, Jude Bellingham's rollercoaster week included a goal for Real Madrid in the Champions League but ended with a red card in La Liga. Barcelona climbed to the top of La Liga after Robert Lewandowski's penalty secured a win against Rayo Vallecano, while Manchester City faces a daunting challenge in their Champions League tie against Madrid.
Leeds Move Closer to Premier League Return
Leeds United took a significant step towards Premier League promotion with a dramatic 2-1 win over Sunderland at Elland Road. Pascal Struijk, who came on as a substitute, scored both goals, including a 95th-minute winner. Wilson Isidor had earlier given Sunderland the lead, but Leeds’ late fightback keeps them seven points clear of third-placed Burnley in the Championship standings.
Bellingham’s Rollercoaster Week
Jude Bellingham scored for Real Madrid in their 3-2 Champions League win at Manchester City but was sent off in their 1-1 La Liga draw against Osasuna. Despite apologizing for his red card, Bellingham remains crucial for Madrid’s Champions League hopes as they prepare for the second leg against City at the Bernabeu.
Man City’s Slim Hope in Champions League
Pep Guardiola admitted City have just a "one percent" chance of overturning their 3-2 deficit against Madrid but hopes January signings Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, and Nico Gonzalez can make a difference. Gonzalez, hailed as a "mini Rodri," could be key in midfield as City chase a miracle in Spain.
Barcelona Go Top of La Liga
Robert Lewandowski’s penalty secured a 1-0 win over Rayo Vallecano, lifting Barcelona to the top of La Liga after Madrid and Atletico both dropped points. Hansi Flick’s side is now unbeaten in 12 games in 2025, keeping their title hopes alive.
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