Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier is facing significant criticism following a costly mistake in stoppage time that allowed Sunderland to equalize, resulting in a 2-2 draw. The blunder cost Leeds valuable points in a tightly contested Championship race. Meslier’s error came after a dramatic match that saw Leeds fall behind early when Chris Rigg scored for Sunderland in the ninth minute. However, Leeds responded swiftly, leveling the match in the 22nd minute with a goal from Joël Piroe. By halftime, the score was tied at 1-1.
In the second half, Leeds appeared to have taken control of the game when Junior Firpo scored in the 56th minute, putting the team ahead. As the match neared its conclusion, it looked like Leeds would leave with all three points. But in a heart-stopping moment during stoppage time, a cross from Alan Browne deflected off Firpo’s head. Meslier, attempting to collect the ball, lost control, allowing it to slip past him and into the net, securing a vital point for Sunderland.
Despite the backlash Meslier has faced, a former Leeds United player has stepped up to defend the young French goalkeeper. Jermaine Beckford, a former fan favorite, expressed his support on social media, urging fans not to lose faith in Meslier. “I really feel for Meslier tonight,” Beckford wrote on X. “He didn’t put a foot wrong, and then in the blink of an eye, one mistake changes the whole game in the final seconds. Fortunately, he’s going to save us more points than he will cost us. Let’s get behind him.”
Leeds United’s manager Daniel Farke and his squad will need to regroup quickly during the FIFA international break as they prepare for a crucial clash against promotion rivals Sheffield United at Elland Road on October 18. Leeds’ recent results, including draws against Sunderland and West Bromwich Albion and a loss to Burnley, have left the team struggling to gain momentum. Dropping points in these matches could prove costly later in the season, especially in a tight promotion race. A win against Sheffield United would be the perfect way for Leeds to bounce back and reignite their promotion push.