Leeds overturned a half-time deficit to beat Derby 3-1 in the FA Cup third round, securing their place in the fourth round with a commanding second-half display. Two quickfire goals from Willy Gnonto and Ao Tanaka within four minutes turned the match decisively in Leeds' favour after Derby had led at the break through Ben Brereton Diaz.
The match looked set for an upset when Derby went into half-time with a 1-0 lead. Leeds had squandered a golden opportunity to level before the break when Derby goalkeeper Jacob Zetterstrom saved Joel Piroe's penalty.
Second-half surge
Leeds transformed the game with two goals in rapid succession. Gnonto equalised in the 55th minute after Jaka Bijol played the ball into the area and Piroe set up the goalscorer.
Just four minutes later, Tanaka put Leeds 2-1 up. He capitalised after Zetterstrom could only parry Piroe's shot, which had hit the inside of the near post.
Substitute James Justin sealed the victory with a third goal in added time. The comfortable margin reflected Leeds' dominance after the interval.
Team changes
Both teams had made significant changes to their lineups. Leeds made eight changes following their 4-3 defeat at Newcastle four days earlier, while Derby made six changes after their home loss to Wrexham the previous week.
Leeds midfielder Sean Longstaff made his first appearance since November, coming off the bench. The victory marked a successful cup run for Leeds after a difficult week in league competition.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
