Sunderland secured a 1-0 victory over Leeds at Elland Road thanks to Habib Diarra's 70th-minute penalty, a decision that sparked outrage among former players and Leeds fans. The Black Cats' win moves them to 40 points and 11th place, while Leeds remain 15th and just six points above the relegation zone.

Referee Stuart Attwell awarded the penalty after VAR review showed Leeds captain Ethan Ampadu handling the ball while blocking Wilson Isidor's shot. The decision drew sharp criticism from ex-Tottenham captain Michael Dawson, who called it 'very harsh' and questioned what Ampadu was supposed to do with his arm. Former Leeds striker Jermaine Beckford was equally baffled by the call.

Adding to Leeds' frustration, VAR had earlier opted not to review a clear penalty incident where Pascal Struijk was wrestled to the ground by Sunderland's Luke O'Nien at a corner. Sky Sports News understands the incident was reviewed but deemed not a 'clear and obvious error.' Diarra's penalty was Sunderland's only shot on target as they ended a nine-game winless away run.