Dominic Calvert-Lewin's remarkable scoring streak continued as Leeds United secured a 1-1 draw against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. The in-form striker has now scored in six consecutive Premier League games, playing a crucial role in Leeds' recent resurgence.
Sunderland, returning to the top flight, maintained their unbeaten home record but were left slightly disappointed after failing to capitalize on their lead. The Black Cats, depleted by the absence of six players due to the Africa Cup of Nations, took the lead in the first half through Simon Adingra. Adingra, who was surprisingly left out of the Ivory Coast squad, curled in a beautiful shot from a Granit Xhaka through ball, marking his first goal for the club.
Leeds, however, responded strongly in the second half. Just two minutes after the restart, Calvert-Lewin latched onto a low cross from Brenden Aaronson to level the score. This was Calvert-Lewin's eighth goal of the season, with seven of those coming in his last six appearances. His stellar form has been instrumental in Leeds' climb away from the relegation zone, easing the pressure on manager Daniel Farke.
The game was a compelling contest between two sides who have impressed this season. Sunderland, managed by Régis Le Bris, proved to be tough opponents, but Leeds ultimately secured a valuable point on the road.
Sunderland's starting line-up featured Roefs in goal, Cirkin, Geertruida, Brobbey, and Rigg. Alderete, Mukiele, Adingra, Le Fée, Hume, and Xhaka completed the team. Leeds, on the other hand, fielded Perri in goal, Bogle, Gudmundsson, Ampadu, and Struijk. Rodon, Calvert-Lewin, Aaronson, Bijol, Stach, and Okafor were also in the starting eleven.
The first half saw Sunderland take the lead through Adingra in the 28th minute. Leeds had a close chance earlier in the half when Noah Okafor's shot was deflected away. Just before halftime, Brian Brobbey's header hit the crossbar, denying Sunderland a second goal.
Leeds made an early substitution in the 31st minute, with Ao Tanaka replacing the injured Joe Rodon. Calvert-Lewin's equalizer came in the 47th minute, bringing Leeds back into the game. Sunderland made a double substitution in the 68th minute, bringing on Isidor and Mayenda for Brobbey and Rigg. Leeds responded by replacing Okafor with Nmecha in the 72nd minute. Late in the game, Sunderland replaced Adingra with Mundle in the 85th minute, while Leeds brought on Gnonto for Calvert-Lewin.
The draw leaves Sunderland in seventh place, four points outside the top four. Leeds, meanwhile, have extended their unbeaten run to five games and moved further away from the relegation zone.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has been a major talking point, and his goalscoring form will be vital for Leeds as they look to continue their climb up the Premier League table. The striker's transformation from a forgotten man to a potential England recall candidate is a testament to his hard work and determination.
