Crystal Palace Manager Oliver Glasner Blown Away by Leeds United FC Star After 4 1 Defeat “I’ve Never Seen Anyone So Strong and Confident”

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner was left stunned after his side suffered a heavy 4 1 defeat to Leeds United at Elland Road, but despite the painful result, the Austrian coach chose to focus on one extraordinary individual performance that, in his words, completely shocked him.

Leeds United delivered a commanding display in front of their home supporters, producing a performance full of intensity, pace, and clinical finishing. Dominik Calvert Lewin led the charge with two goals in the first half, scoring in the 38th minute and again deep into stoppage time at 45 plus 4. Leeds continued their dominance after the break, with Ethan Ampadu adding a third goal in the 60th minute before Anton Stach sealed the victory dramatically in the 90 plus 11th minute.

While Calvert Lewin’s brace and Leeds’ attacking threat dominated headlines, Glasner’s post match comments shifted attention toward a different name altogether. Speaking after the final whistle, the Crystal Palace manager singled out Leeds defender J. Bijol for special praise, calling him the most underrated player he has ever faced.

“I’m sorry, I mean no disrespect to Leeds FC,” Glasner said. “I knew D. Calvert Lewin controlled the game and scored twice, but one player really shocked me and thats Bijol he was called. I don’t know why this player hasn’t played for a higher club like us. I really don’t know how, because he has everything. I’ve never seen someone as strong as him. He was like a wall.”

“Every time we tried to progress, he was there,” Glasner added. “Strong, confident, calm. These are the kinds of players who make everyone around them better.”

Bijol’s performance at the heart of Leeds’ defense was nothing short of outstanding. He played the full 90 minutes and dominated Crystal Palace’s attacking line with calm authority. Time and again, Palace attacks broke down when confronted by the Slovenian defender, whose positioning and composure frustrated the visitors throughout the match.

Despite winning only one official tackle, Bijol’s influence went far beyond defensive statistics. His reading of the game, physical presence, and ability to anticipate danger ensured Leeds remained solid even during brief periods of Palace pressure. His contribution in possession was equally impressive, completing 63 accurate passes and helping Leeds control the tempo of the game.

What truly elevated Bijol’s performance was his attacking contribution from deep positions. The defender registered two assists, both of which came from intelligent forward play and precise distribution. His ability to transition play from defense to attack was a key factor in Leeds’ dominance and highlighted why Glasner was so impressed.

Bijol’s display earned him a player rating of 4.5 from Google users, one of the highest ratings on the pitch. Fans at Elland Road responded with loud applause whenever he touched the ball, clearly recognizing his importance to the team’s structure and success.

Glasner also offered a brutally honest assessment of his own side’s performance, admitting Crystal Palace fell well short of the required level.

“We were not brave enough and we lost too many individual battles,” he said. “Leeds punished every mistake and deserved the win. We must be honest with ourselves, learn quickly, and respond with much more intensity in the next match.”

For Leeds United, the victory was a statement performance. The team showed balance between attacking flair and defensive solidity, with Bijol providing the foundation that allowed others to shine. Manager praise from an opposing coach only reinforced the belief among supporters that Leeds possess a player capable of competing at the highest level.

Crystal Palace, meanwhile, were left to reflect on a sobering night. The result exposed defensive weaknesses and a lack of control in key moments, issues Glasner acknowledged must be addressed quickly if Palace are to recover momentum.

As the season progresses, performances like this will continue to draw attention toward J. Bijol. If he maintains this level, it may not be long before bigger clubs come calling. For now, Leeds United fans can take pride in knowing they have a player capable of dominating matches and earning admiration even in defeat.

At Elland Road, on a night filled with goals and drama, one defender quietly stole the spotlight while earning the respect of a defeated manager.