Leeds United takes lead against Nottingham Forest with late goal by Stach

There’s a reason football managers always insist their players stay focused until the final whistle. Anton Stach just provided the latest evidence. The German midfielder buried the ball in the net in the 88th minute on August 22, 2026, handing Leeds United a 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest.

The goal that settled it

The 27-year-old’s late strike against Forest was his fifth goal of the 2025/26 Premier League season, a tally that would be impressive for any midfielder, let alone one whose primary reputation was built on defensive work.

At 1.93 meters tall, Stach cuts an imposing figure in the middle of the park. Daniel Farke’s decision to keep faith with Stach has paid dividends all season. The midfielder had battled back from a hip injury that threatened to derail his momentum, but his return to fitness has coincided with some of Leeds’ best results this campaign.

A signing that keeps delivering

When Leeds brought Stach over from TSG Hoffenheim in July 2025 on a four-year contract, there were reasonable questions about whether a Bundesliga midfielder could adapt to the pace and physicality of the Premier League. His blend of tactical intelligence and physical presence made him a natural fit for Farke’s system, which demands that midfielders contribute at both ends of the pitch.

The move also earned him recognition on the international stage, with Stach securing a call-up to the German national team.

Leeds had already demonstrated their superiority over Forest earlier in the 2025/26 season, claiming a convincing 3-1 victory back in February. That result, combined with today’s win, means Leeds have completed the league double over Nottingham Forest this campaign.

What this means for the table

The German’s five-goal haul from midfield puts him among the most productive central players in the league this season. The fact that he’s doing it while also anchoring the defensive side of Leeds’ midfield makes the numbers even more remarkable.

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