Brentford's midfield partnership of Vitaly Janelt and Mamadou Sangaré earned praise after a strong performance in a 1-1 Premier League draw away to Leeds United. The result leaves the Bees fifth in the table with four points from two matches, just two points behind leaders Manchester City.
How did the midfield partnership perform?
According to analysis from Brentford FC, the duo of Janelt and Sangaré were central to an impressive team display at Elland Road. They combined to win seven tackles and eight interceptions during the match, also winning three aerial duels. On the ball, Sangaré completed 56 accurate passes, more than any other Brentford player, while Janelt maintained an 85% pass completion rate.
Their work helped Brentford control large periods of the game, with the team firing 22 shots to Leeds's 12. Kevin Schade gave the visitors a first-half lead with a clever flick from Keane Lewis-Potter's cross, his first goal of the 2026/27 campaign. Dominic Calvert-Lewin's late tap-in for Leeds meant the points were shared. Head coach Keith Andrews told Brentford FC he was "very proud" of his side's performance.
What is Brentford's current league position?
After an opening weekend 3-0 win over Tottenham and this draw, Brentford occupy fifth place. They have four points, a positive goal difference of three, and an unbeaten start. You can track their progress on the official standings page. The team has scored four goals and conceded just one so far this season. Their next challenge is a home game against Sunderland on September 5th, a fixture you can find on the club's fixtures schedule.
Who is currently unavailable for selection?
Brentford's squad depth is being tested by several absences. As of September 3rd, midfielder Mathias Jensen was ruled out of the Leeds match through injury. He joins Antoni Milambo, Sepp van den Berg, and Josh Dasilva on the sidelines. The full list of unavailable players is maintained on the club's injuries page. Jensen's absence against Leeds highlighted the importance of the Janelt-Sangaré pivot, which also excelled in the season opener against Spurs.
What are the stats ahead of the Sunderland match?
BBC Sport's preview notes several historical trends for the upcoming home game. Brentford are unbeaten in their last four home matches against Sunderland in all competitions. They have kept five clean sheets in their 11 Premier League home games in 2026, including in three of the last four. Sunderland, currently 11th, have won just eight points from their last 16 away Premier League matches in London.
Brentford forward Igor Thiago has had seven shots without scoring this season, the second-highest total in the league behind Diego Gómez. The team hosts Sunderland at the Gtech Community Stadium this Saturday, September 5th.
