Leeds United booked their place in the League Cup third round with a 2-0 victory away to Nottingham Forest on Monday night. The win at the City Ground followed a 1-0 Premier League triumph over the same opponents just three days earlier.
Daniel James broke the deadlock five minutes after the restart, firing Leeds into the lead in the 50th minute. The second goal arrived in the 75th minute from defender James Justin, though it was initially credited as a Neco Williams own goal. The result means Leeds have now beaten Forest twice in four days.
Leeds United's performance was efficient and controlled. They managed the game well after taking the lead and capitalised on their opportunities. The clean sheet continues a positive defensive start to the season, with the team yet to concede a goal in competitive action. This cup progress provides valuable momentum as the squad builds cohesion.
The cup success builds on a solid start to the Premier League campaign. As of 26 August 2026, Leeds sit 9th in the table with 3 points from their opening match, a win. Their goal difference stands at +1, having scored once and conceded none. The only goal of their league season so far was scored by Anton Stach, who is the current top scorer with 1 goal in 1 appearance. Their next challenge is a home league fixture against Brentford, who are 3rd, on 30 August.
Several other top-flight clubs handled the second round. Newly-promoted Coventry City enjoyed a 4-2 win over League One's Plymouth Argyle, racing into a 2-0 lead inside five minutes with Taiwo Awoniyi scoring and assisting. Fellow promoted side Ipswich Town defeated third-tier Leicester City 3-1 at Portman Road, with two late goals from Marcelino Nunez. Hull City, who shocked Manchester United 2-0 in their league opener, needed penalties to see off Championship side Stoke City after a 1-1 draw, having made 11 changes.
West Ham United, of the Championship, beat second-tier rivals Southampton 4-1. In another match, Premier League side Brentford thrashed Championship club Birmingham City 6-1, leading 3-1 at the break with goals from six different players.
Attention now swiftly returns to Premier League duties. The immediate focus is preparing for the visit of Brentford this weekend, a match that presents an early test against a high-flying opponent. Progress in the League Cup offers the chance for further minutes across the squad and the pursuit of silverware. Fans can follow the team's schedule on our fixtures page. This double over Forest provides a confident platform for the challenges ahead.
