‘Unnecessary’ – Welsh media reacts after what Leeds United star just did away from Leeds

Ethan Ampadu will be unavailable for Wales’ crucial final World Cup qualifying match against North Macedonia after being booked in their win over Liechtenstein.

The midfielder is one of 14 Leeds United players currently away on international duty, and like many at Elland Road, he has endured an up-and-down start to the season. After Leeds’ recent 3-1 loss to Nottingham Forest, Ampadu would have hoped for a positive reset with his national team — but his international break has taken an unexpected turn.

Mixed response to Ampadu’s costly yellow card

Ampadu captained Wales to a 1-0 victory over Liechtenstein on Saturday, a result that kept their World Cup hopes alive. However, his second booking of the qualifying campaign means he will miss the decisive final match against North Macedonia.

Reaction to the yellow card has been mixed in Wales. Although Ampadu has struggled throughout this qualifying run, his absence is still seen as a significant setback.

Wales Online reported on 15 November that the Leeds skipper “showed his usual calmness and controlled the game well,” though they described the challenge that earned his booking as “rash,” giving him a rating of six.
The Football Faithful also praised his ability to manage the tempo of the match and maintain possession efficiently.

His performance stats back that up:

87% pass accuracy
1 key pass
100% successful dribbles

Still, the evening was overshadowed by what the media called an “unnecessary” challenge that has now led to a “costly suspension.”

Wales face must-win test without key players

Wales can still qualify for the 2026 World Cup, but the task has become far more challenging. To clinch second place in Group J behind Belgium — and secure a home play-off semi-final — they must beat North Macedonia in Cardiff.

If they fail to win, Wales will still reach the play-offs thanks to their Nations League record, but they would have to play the semi-final away from home, with the tie decided over one leg.

Compounding the issue, Jordan James was also booked against Liechtenstein, meaning Wales will be without both James and Ampadu for their decisive showdown — a major blow to their qualification hopes.