Chelsea collapse late as Leeds stage stunning comeback in chaos-filled thriller

Chelsea and Leeds United played out a thrilling 2-2 draw in what turned into one of the most dramatic matches of the season, with the Blues surrendering a strong lead after appearing to be firmly in control.

Chelsea started brightly and took the lead in the 24th minute through Joao Pedro, who produced a delicate chip to beat the goalkeeper and put the hosts ahead.

Leeds struggled to find rhythm for much of the opening half but remained within reach, going into the break trailing by just a single goal despite Chelsea’s dominance.

The second half resumed with a similar pattern, Chelsea dictating the tempo and looking comfortable in possession.

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Their control seemed to be rewarded when they doubled their advantage from the penalty spot after a reckless challenge by Bijol on Joao Pedro inside the box. Cole Palmer stepped up and calmly converted, giving the impression that the match was effectively settled.

However, Leeds responded in unexpected fashion and reignited the contest midway through the second half.

Moisés Caicedo was adjudged to have fouled Bogle from behind as the makeshift forward threatened in a dangerous area, resulting in a penalty.

Lukas Nmecha made no mistake from the spot in the 67th minute, reducing the deficit and injecting fresh belief into the visitors.

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Momentum quickly shifted, and Leeds capitalised on Chelsea’s sudden defensive uncertainty just six minutes later.

A chaotic scramble in the box, again involving Bogle, saw goalkeeper Robert Sánchez and defender Acheampong fail to clear convincingly.

Nmecha reacted first, poking the ball into the path of Okafor, who finished clinically to bring Leeds level.

Chelsea pushed hard for a late winner, and Palmer came agonisingly close deep into stoppage time but missed from point-blank range.

Leeds held firm in the closing moments to secure a remarkable comeback and earn a valuable point, while Chelsea were left to reflect on a game that slipped from their grasp despite early dominance.