Leeds United’s automatic promotion hopes were severely dented after a 4-0 thrashing at the hands of Queens Park Rangers (QPR) at Loftus Road. The Whites were in control of their own destiny, but a dismal performance has left them facing the possibility of playoffs.
Manager Daniel Farke’s decision to start Joel Piroe as the lone central forward backfired, as the Dutchman failed to impress. Piroe, who has struggled for form this season, was replaced by Mateo Joseph, who deserves a chance to shine and help Leeds secure promotion.
Piroe’s performance was abysmal, with a xG of 0.14 and only 47 touches throughout the game. He failed to win any of his six aerial duels and was victorious in only two of his five ground duels. To make matters worse, he gave the ball away 12 times, once every seven minutes.
Farke must take responsibility for his team selection and tactics, which ultimately led to Leeds’ downfall. The defense was also at fault, with Illan Meslier making several errors that cost his team dearly.
Leeds’ promotion hopes are now in jeopardy, and they may have to navigate the playoffs to secure a spot in the Premier League. With Patrick Bamford still injured, Farke must find a solution to his team’s attacking woes and fast.
In conclusion, Leeds United’s automatic promotion hopes were severely dented after a 4-0 thrashing at the hands of QPR. Joel Piroe’s poor performance and Daniel Farke’s team selection and tactics were major factors in the Whites’ downfall. Leeds must regroup and find a solution to their attacking woes if they hope to secure promotion to the Premier League.