“Better than these guys” – Marc Guehi’s Leeds United loss verdict, Palace declaration and Arsenal comparison

Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi endured a rare off night as his side were convincingly beaten by Leeds United at Elland Road.

Despite arriving in West Yorkshire knowing a win would move Palace level on points with fourth-placed Chelsea, the Eagles were overwhelmed by Daniel Farke’s energetic Leeds team, slipping to a heavy 4-1 defeat. After the match, Guéhi was candid in his assessment, conceding that Leeds were fully deserving of the victory and outworked Palace across the pitch.

Speaking to Sky Sports, via Crystal Palace’s official website, the England international admitted that Leeds “won every duel” and showed greater desire, praising the Whites for their physicality and intensity throughout the contest.

Palace now face a swift turnaround with a Carabao Cup quarter-final away at Arsenal on Tuesday night, a challenge Guéhi acknowledged will be even sterner—particularly from set pieces.

“Everyone is disappointed, but it is definitely deserved,” Guéhi said. “Leeds were the better side. They won every first contact, every second ball, and in the Premier League that will punish you.

“They wanted it more and were more physical. Credit to them. We have to learn from this.”

The defender was also keen to dismiss any suggestion that Palace’s packed schedule had contributed to the defeat, which came just days after their Europa Conference League draw with KPS.

Looking ahead to Arsenal, Guéhi added: “They are better than Leeds at set pieces, so we have to defend better, stay compact, and try to hit them on the counter. It’s another tough game, so we need to learn quickly and move on.

“We’re not making excuses. We’ll recover fast and go again.”