Rodon lauds squad depth after Leeds overcome Forest in Carabao Cup

Leeds United secured a 2–0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground to reach the Carabao Cup third round for the first time since the 2022–23 season. Daniel James opened the scoring in the 50th minute with a powerful strike past Matz Sels, and James Justin added a second goal in the 75th minute.

Back-to-back wins on Forest’s home turf

The result marked Leeds’ second consecutive win at the City Ground, coming just three days after their 1–0 Premier League triumph over the same opponent. The club has now won both fixtures played there within that span, reinforcing early-season consistency under manager Daniel Farke.

Rodon: “The ability in the squad is unbelievable”

Welsh international Joe Rodon highlighted the collective strength across the Leeds United squad following the cup win. Speaking to ITV Sport, he said: “Injuries are a part of the game, we know what he's capable of, he [James] showed his quality and had a great finish.”

He added: “We need everyone, it's a long season, the ability in the squad is unbelievable, we need everyone together. We want to change the mentality, grow again as a group and win as many games as we can. The signings have been top, we want to continue with this momentum.”

Rotational lineup delivers results

Farke fielded a rotated side featuring Daniel James, Noah Okafor, Ao Tanaka, and Lukas Nmecha in starting roles. Defender Nico Elvedi made his debut for the club in the match. Rodon specifically commended James’ performance, noting his resilience after an injury-plagued 2025–26 campaign.

Statistical dominance and Forest’s cup struggles

Leeds registered an expected goals (xG) total of 2.26 from 13 attempts, compared to Forest’s 0.86 from eight efforts. The defeat extends Forest’s poor record in the Carabao Cup against fellow top-flight sides: they have won only one of their last 10 such ties (D2, L7).

Momentum ahead of Brentford clash

The consecutive victories provide a morale boost ahead of Leeds’ upcoming Premier League fixture against Brentford at Elland Road on Sunday. The club will also await the Carabao Cup third-round draw to learn its next opponent. Squad depth demonstrated across both matches positions Leeds to sustain early-season form.