Wales media in total agreement after what Leeds star Karl Darlow did v Belgium
Wales suffered a brutal defeat at the hands of Belgium in an important World Cup qualifier on Friday, and there was plenty of Leeds interest in the game.
Craig Bellamy’s side found themselves 3-0 down in the first half, but produced an incredible fightback to draw level in a game which saw many Premier League players feature.
Dan James was missing for the visitors, who had put on a masterclass in the second half before Kevin de Bruyne broke Welsh hearts with a late winner, with Belgium recording a dramatic 4-3 victory.
Leeds goalkeeper Karl Darlow started between the posts for his country, but he has now been slammed following his display.
Darlow slammed after Wales loss to Belgium
Darlow usurped Illan Meslier towards the end of the season, finishing the campaign as Leeds’ first-choice option in goal.
While the veteran was a solid performer for Leeds in this run, he was anything but as Belgium put three past him with ease in a nightmare first half.
Romelu Lukaku dispatched a penalty before Youri Tielemans and Jeremie Doku made it 3-0 by the 27th minute, with Darlow hapless in goal.
| 2024-25 Stats | Darlow |
| Appearance | 10 |
| Goals conceded | 8 |
| Clean sheets | 5 |
Welsh outlet Y Clwb Pel-Droed gave Darlow a 4/10 match rating, stating that he had a “tough night” and claimed that he should have done better for the third goal from Doku.
SportsDunia were in agreement, also labelling Darlow’s performance as a 4/10 display, highlighting that he let Doku’s shot through his fingers “too easily.”
Leeds need a new goalkeeper
Leeds need a new goalkeeper as a matter of priority, with Darlow set to return as the number two option for next season.
This match was a good test to see how Darlow would fare against Premier League-level attackers, and while he was powerless to stop the first two goals, it is clear that the 34-year-old was out of his depth.
Although he can still be a reliable backup next season, Leeds need to sign a goalkeeper who can help save them points in the top division, and potentially save them from relegation.
Leeds will face a massive step-up in quality from the Championship, and small margins such as Doku’s third goal against Darlow will make a huge difference.