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Leeds United player ratings against Manchester United: James Trafford and Wilfried Gnonto impress in Croke Park draw
Deepa Krishnaswamy | August 13, 2026 9:54 AM CST

Leeds United played out a 1-1 draw with Manchester United at Croke Park before going down 5-4 in the penalty shootout, with debutant James Trafford and Wilfried Gnonto among the standout performers in a landmark occasion. It was the first football match to be held at the stadium since 2009 and the first club fixture ever staged there.

As reported by Leeds Live, Manchester United went in front in the 16th minute when Joshua Zirkzee finished beyond Trafford after Bryan Mbeumo had got the better of Jaka Bijol. Leeds responded in the 29th minute, with Daniel James winning the ball and laying it on for Brenden Aaronson to score from close range.

Gnonto and Noah Okafor were brought on at half-time and added a greater attacking edge, creating openings that were not converted. Manchester United also had their moments, with Bruno Fernandes striking the crossbar, but neither side could find a winning goal.

Manchester United then won the shootout 5-4. Fernandes missed his penalty, while Harry Wilson and James Justin were also unsuccessful from the spot for Leeds.

Trafford was awarded nine for his composed distribution and an alert save to deny Bryan Mbeumo, while James received eight for his role in forcing the equaliser. Gnonto and Okafor were also given eight for energetic substitute appearances, and Joe Rodon and Ethan Ampadu each got seven.

At the other end of the ratings, Lukas Nmecha was given two, Ao Tanaka four and Dominic Calvert-Lewin four. Head coach Daniel Farke received seven, with his much-changed side improving after the break, although they still offered little creativity through central areas.


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