The pre-match music echoing through the speakers created a vibrant ‘90s party atmosphere, featuring Chumbawamba’s ‘Tubthumping’ followed by Underworld’s ‘Born Slippy,’ setting the perfect tone for the home crowd.
Mateusz Klich, a former Leeds player from 2017 to 2023, made his return and received a warm reception as he was showcased around the pitch. However, the overall atmosphere remained relatively subdued until about ten minutes before kick-off.
As the stadium announcer introduced the teams, each Red was met with a chorus of boos, while the home players were greeted with deafening cheers from the stands.
I was seated next to former United midfielder Ben Thornley, who played here in various capacities, including the Premier League and an FA Youth Cup final.
He noted that Elland Road has always been one of the most challenging venues for players, an intimidating place regardless of the occasion.
With nearly three years since our last visit—during which few players remained from that match, which the Reds won 2-0—this contest promised to be intense. The atmosphere surged to a ‘hearing protection-required level’ when the Whites’ anthem, ‘Marching on Together,’ filled the air.
