UPDATE: Wales delivered an electrifying performance, crushing North Macedonia 7-1 in a World Cup play-off qualifier, securing home advantage for the semi-finals. Manager Craig Bellamy hailed the match as “close to the perfect performance,” showcasing Wales’ dominance and tactical brilliance.
The match, held in Cardiff, featured a stunning hat-trick from captain Harry Wilson, marking the first time since September 2021 that a Welsh player achieved this feat. With contributions from David Brooks, Brennan Johnson, Daniel James, and Nathan Broadhead, Wales displayed an offensive mastery not seen since their historic 7-0 victory over Malta in 1978.
Bellamy expressed his admiration, stating, “That was as close to the perfect performance as I have seen. That was incredible.” He emphasized the team’s clean ball control and strategic positioning, noting their innovative formation with three attacking midfielders. “We were just so clean with the ball, and that allows you to have good chances,” he added.
This emphatic win not only showcases Wales’ capabilities but also secures them a favorable position in the play-off draw set for Thursday in Zurich. With their Nations League results already guaranteeing a play-off spot, the victory ensures they avoid being placed in the bottom pot, allowing them to face teams like the Republic of Ireland, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, or Kosovo at home.
Wilson’s hat-trick elevated him to 17 international goals, placing him eighth in Wales’ all-time rankings. Bellamy praised Wilson’s intelligence on the field, saying, “I have only seen the superb side of him since I have been in his role. He is such an intelligent player.”
Wales’ remarkable result comes on the heels of Scotland’s automatic qualification for the World Cup, defeating Denmark 4-2. Bellamy expressed solidarity with the home nations, stating, “I love seeing the home nations do well. That’s given us more incentive. For me personally, I want to be joining them.”
As excitement builds for the upcoming World Cup play-off, fans and players alike are eager to see if Wales can capitalize on this momentum. With key matches on the horizon, all eyes will be on the draw to see who Wales will face next in their quest for World Cup glory.
