Substitute Pascal Struijk Scores Late Equalizer to Rescue Point for Leeds United
Brighton and Hove Albion 1-1 Leeds United
Struijk's Last-Minute Goal Lifts Leeds Out of the Drop Zone
In a thrilling match that went down to the wire, substitute Pascal Struijk scored a dramatic equalizer in added time to earn Leeds United a point away to Brighton and Hove Albion. The goal moved Leeds out of the relegation zone and boosted their hopes of Premier League survival.
Brighton took the lead in the first half through Leandro Trossard, but Leeds responded well after the break and created several good chances. Jack Harrison came close to equalizing on several occasions, while Rodrigo had a goal ruled out for offside.
As the match entered added time, it looked as though Brighton would hold on for all three points. However, Struijk had other ideas. The Dutch defender rose highest to meet a corner kick and головой sent the ball into the net, sparking wild celebrations among the Leeds players and supporters.
The draw leaves Leeds in 16th place in the Premier League table, one point above the relegation zone. Brighton remain in ninth place, having missed the chance to move into the top half of the table.
Struijk's goal was his first for Leeds since joining the club from Ajax in 2020. The 23-year-old has been a regular in the Leeds defense this season and has impressed with his physicality and composure on the ball.
Leeds will be hoping to build on this result when they face Wolverhampton Wanderers at Elland Road next weekend. Brighton, meanwhile, will be looking to get back to winning ways when they travel to Brentford.