Leeds United quartet to stay with Wales after World Cup play-off heartbreak | OneFootball

Leeds United’s Welsh quartet will remain on international duty this week despite Wales’ World Cup play-off defeat to Bosnia & Herzegovina on penalties, ending their World Cup hopes. The Football Association of Wales confirmed in December that, if beaten, Cymru would instead play a Tuesday challenge match against the other semi-final loser. This fulfils the two-game international window, and tickets would not be refunded regardless of opponent.

Ethan Ampadu captained in Cardiff, with Karl Darlow, Joe Rodon and Daniel James also starting. James struck from around 30 yards in the 51st minute, beating Nikola Vasilj.

Darlow then saved superbly from Ermedin Demirovic, but Edin Dzeko flicked in from a corner with four minutes of normal time left. It finished 1-1 after 90 and 120 minutes, before Wales lost the shoot-out as Neco Williams and Brennan Johnson missed.

Ampadu said they were devastated, felt they had prepared well and would reflect on late-game management.

James, taken off on 85 minutes and yet to score for Leeds this season, called the equaliser gutting and praised their extra-time effort. He thanked supporters and said they would be back.

Darlow said Wales gave everything, could be proud of their style and, with a young group, hoped for brighter times.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk