Erling Haaland could not hide his delight after Leeds United secured their first league win at Old Trafford since 1981, posting a simple two word message on Snapchat as the Yorkshire side took a giant step towards Premier League survival.
“Get in,” the Manchester City striker wrote, alongside an image of Leeds celebrating their stunning victory.
Haaland was born in Leeds. His father, Alf Inge, played at Elland Road. The Norwegian has been pictured in Leeds kit before. And on Monday night, his allegiance was clear for all to see.
Okafor the hero
Noah Okafor was the matchwinner. Two goals. Three points. History made.
The first came after just five minutes, a crisp first time finish that set the tone. The second was something special: a volley from outside the box that flicked off Leny Yoro and nestled into the corner, silencing the Stretford End.
Leeds were in dreamland. And then things got even better.
Martinez sent off for hair pull
Lisandro Martinez saw red after VAR intervened for a hair pull on Dominic Calvert Lewin. It was bizarre. It was unnecessary. And it left Manchester United with ten men for the final half hour.
Casemiro gave the hosts hope with a header, but Calvert Lewin produced a goal line clearance to ensure Leeds left with all three points.
“It’s a massive result for us,” Okafor said afterwards. “We came here to win, that’s how we set up and we executed the game plan.
“It’s easy to come here and make history, but it doesn’t matter come the end of the season when the points tallies are in. That’s all we’re focused on.”
What this means for Leeds
The win lifts Leeds six points clear of the relegation zone. Six points. With favourable fixtures to come.
They still have to face four of the five sides below them. That starts with a home game against Wolves. Then Burnley at Elland Road. Then trips to Tottenham and West Ham on the final day.
Leeds have only lost four times since December. The problem? They have only won five times in that period. Draws have been killing them.
But this? This was not a draw. This was a statement.
The bottom line
Haaland enjoyed it. Leeds fans enjoyed it. And for one night at least, the ghosts of 1981 were laid to rest.
Old Trafford is no longer a fortress. Leeds are no longer pushovers. And survival is now firmly in their own hands.
“Get in,” indeed.
