Amorim encouraged by Manchester United resilience in tough Leeds stalemate

Ruben Amorim commended Manchester United for staying composed amid the intimidating atmosphere at Elland Road following Matheus Cunha's timely equaliser that secured a 1-1 result against Leeds on Sunday.

Brenden Aaronson gave Leeds the lead in the second half yet Cunha responded swiftly to level the scores, avoiding an uncommon setback for United against their longstanding adversaries.

Though United lacked their usual smoothness, thwarting Leeds' first league victory over them since 2002 and their initial success in any fixture since 2010 proved a positive outcome for Amorim.

Missing numerous important squad members due to injuries and commitments at the Africa Cup of Nations, United delivered a stronger showing compared to the frustrating 1-1 draw at home to struggling Wolves in their prior outing, where fans had jeered them off the pitch.

Amorim, sticking with his debated three at the back setup, appreciated how United handled Leeds' intensity as the home side sought to harness the electric energy from the passionate Elland Road crowd.

"We performed solidly. We made significant progress from the previous match," he remarked.

"We managed Leeds' pressing attacks effectively. We handled individual duels adeptly. The atmosphere was intense yet our players rose to the occasion."

Dominic Calvert-Lewin struck the upright for Leeds during the opening period, while United squandered opportunities to claim all three points away from home.

Leny Yoro's header in the first half drew an excellent stop from Leeds custodian Lucas Perri, and Benjamin Sesko blazed over from close range.

"We dominated possession better, improved our passing links, and positioned players optimally. Our setup allowed for superior play, evident in our overall approach," Amorim noted.

"We created more scoring opportunities than Leeds, though we must focus on the immediate task ahead without dwelling on what could have been."

Leeds manager Daniel Farke commented: "This fixture carries immense weight, often described as the biggest in Leeds United's recent past.

"Thus I am immensely proud of my team's determination and fight. We produced yet another strong, competitive display.

"Truth be told, there is a minor frustration that we could not secure the full victory."