Credit: Imago/BBC News

Declan Carr

Fri 27 March 2026 8:10, UK

Leeds United star Karl Darlow was compared to England legend Gordon Banks in Wales’ World Cup playoff semi-final defeat against Bosnia.

Darlow was one of four Leeds players who started the match for Craig Bellamy’s side, with Ethan Ampadu, Dan James and Joe Rodon also in the side.

James got the scoring underway with a stunning strike from distance at the Cardiff City Stadium on 26 March, and the goalkeeper did his best to keep his country in the lead.

Unfortunately, the Leeds aces had to go to a shootout, and they ultimately got knocked out and will not head to the tournament this summer.

What was said about Leeds star Darlow?

Darlow has emerged as Leeds’ number one recently, and he has the same position for his nation.

He showed why with a beautiful save as Edin Dzeko put the ball across the penalty area to Ermedin Demirovic, who headed towards the corner.

The Whites stopper produced a full-stretch save to deny the Bosnian forward, and left Danny Gabbidon stunned.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra, the ex-Wales international said: “That was Gordon Banks like from Karl Darlow, it looks like it’s in and he just claws it back with his left hand.

“What a save!”

Darlow’s Leeds number one status can’t be challenged

Darlow’s position as Daniel Farke’s number one should be undisputed now.

The save was truly phenomenal, and it was not the only one that he made, as he ended up with four saves at the end of proceedings, in a wonderful performance as he also saved a penalty in the shootout.

He has been doing that in the last few weeks for Farke’s side too, keeping two clean sheets in the 0-0 draws with Crystal Palace and Brentford, which could give the LS11 side vital points.

He offers an assured presence at the back for his defence, something which neither Lucas Perri or Illan Meslier can give, so he must be the starter for the near future.

The comparison to Banks, who made 73 appearances and won the World Cup with the Three Lions, is a bit far, but Darlow will have a big hand in keeping the Peacocks in the top-flight.

If he can come up with a couple of displays like his one in Cardiff, then they have every chance of maintaining their status in the division.