Rob Page, the manager of Wales: “We don’t mind who visits us. We’ll square up and give it our all. We have examined Poland analytically. We’ve previously examined them. Though it will be a challenging exam, you already have all the motivation you need. On Tuesday, the boys will be prepared.
Cardiff City Stadium.
Wales defeated Finland 4-1 to set themselves up for this summer’s highlight tournament in Germany, just 90 minutes away.
David Brooks and Neco Williams’ goals in the first half put the hosts in command and gave the bulk of the sold-out Cardiff audience hope for a stress-free evening.
Teemu Pukki put an end to those ideas just before the half with his 40th goal for Finland, but Brennan Johnson soon doubled Wales’ lead after the interval, and Daniel James, a substitute, completed the scoring late on.
Manager Page is excited about the challenge ahead of the Dragons as they attempt to secure a spot in their fourth major tournament in five years and their third consecutive European major championship when they visit Poland on Tuesday.
“It doesn’t matter who visits us. We’ll square up and give it our best shot,” Page remarked.
“I’m rather happy. While there were awkward moments during the game, you can’t always have your way while playing against strong teams.
“We don’t care who comes to visit. Page said, “We’ll square up and give it our best effort.
“I’m feeling a little content. Even if there were some unpleasant times during the match, playing against good teams means you can’t always get your way.
In their play-off semifinal match, Poland easily defeated Estonia 5-1. Page continued, saying, “We have conducted analysis on Poland and Estonia.” Poland has previously been examined.
“You’re going to have a difficult test, but what more incentive do you need? On Tuesday, the boys will be prepared.
“We have guys that are playing on a regular basis; our squad is younger and fitter. With a game plan set to go on Tuesday, we will be back on the grass on Sunday.
It’s still an ongoing project. We have given ourselves a great opportunity, and everyone can see what we are attempting to accomplish.”
Wales defender Neco Williams is now here at S4C:
“Excellent performance; we had a strategy going into this match. And it turned out as well as it could have, in my opinion. We surrendered, but that was the only bad thing about the game; four goals puts you ahead of the game. It serves as a useful warm-up for our next Tuesday match.
“My goal was instinctual; it wasn’t premeditated in any way. I’m glad I could score for my nation; winning is a unique feeling. However, scoring was the icing on the cake. Overall, a fantastic performance that will serve as a solid springboard for Tuesday.
“We’re playing in the final on Tuesday after winning our semi-final. We never give up.
Here we are at this moment. There is still one game left. With any luck, we play well enough to advance to the Euros.”
“The sweeping victory today will be viewed by Rob Page, his coaches, and the technical director at the FAW as confirmation of their ‘transition’ post-World Cup in Qatar and life without Bale.
“Far too good for Finland, a young team with seasoned pros continued their progress. Yes, the next week’s test will be more difficult, but this wasn’t a soft 1-0 victory.
And who did not need to be on the bench, who stayed there? Ramsey, Aaron. Wales didn’t need him, not because he has nothing to offer—oh, I’m sure he has plenty.
“Page has faith in this group, and they have returned his faith in them tonight. Come on, Tuesday.”
“They lacked experience and style in the earlier rounds of the qualifications. They were quite good tonight. In possession, tidy, cozy…
“Rob Page stated that during the week, they appeared to be at ease and aware of the task at hand. David Brooks is about to enter; Harry Wilson is superb. Ethan Ampadu, a 23-year-old, 50th cap midfielder, is excellent. Jordan James with him operating in the midfield. That middle midfield made all the difference. and Dan James scored the goal after entering the game.
“They were outstanding this evening. Wales needs to work as a unit if you consider where they are at the moment. A few years back, we were winning games after games thanks to the incredible, superstar Gareth Bale. He is no longer there. Right now
Wales‘ attention now turns to the Euro 2024 play-off final at home to Poland on Tuesday night, kick-off 7.45pm.
Rob Page’s side then travel to Slovakia for an international friendly on June 9, with a kick-off time yet to be confirmed.
Should they qualify for Euro 2024, then Wales would be paired in a group with Netherlands, Austria and France.
Leave a Reply