Aston Villa manager Unai Emery launched a furious post-match attack on Leeds United supporters after his side salvaged a 1–1 draw at Elland Road, insisting the atmosphere created by the home crowd “changed everything” in a match he believes Villa should have won comfortably.

Leeds looked on course for a vital victory after taking the lead through Anton Stach in the 31st minute, capitalising on a spell of pressure that had Villa struggling to find rhythm. The hosts defended resolutely for long periods and appeared set to hold on as frustration grew on the Villa bench.

However, the contest turned late on when Tammy Abraham struck in the 88th minute to rescue a point for the visitors. The striker reacted quickest inside the box to fire past the goalkeeper, silencing much of the stadium and denying Leeds what would have been a crucial win.

Despite the comeback, Emery cut an angry figure at full time and directed his frustration toward Leeds fans, claiming a controversial chant from the stands disrupted his team’s concentration at a decisive stage of the match.

“We were the better side for most of the game,” Emery said in a tense interview. “But that chant — it changed the momentum completely. In football, details matter, and today that atmosphere affected the players. Without it, we win this game.”

Villa players celebrated the late equaliser as if it were a victory, while Leeds supporters voiced mixed emotions — relief at avoiding defeat but frustration at surrendering the lead so late.

The draw leaves both sides with work to do as the season intensifies, but the fallout from Emery’s comments is likely to dominate headlines. Leeds fans have already pushed back on social media, insisting the atmosphere is part of home advantage and dismissing the claims as excuses.

What should have been remembered as a dramatic late comeback is now overshadowed by controversy, with Emery’s explosive remarks ensuring this match will be talked about long after the final whistle.