A new era begins for Welsh Football. And we were there!

9 September 2024 63 2 5

Photo taken at Cardiff City Stadium for Wales v Turkey for mens international football

Match Report: Wales vs Turkey - Nation's League Group match at Cardiff City Stadium, Friday 6th September 2024

A new chapter dawned for the Welsh Men’s National Football Team on a rain-soaked evening at Cardiff City Stadium.

Craig Bellamy, in his first senior managerial role after coaching spells at Burnley and Anderlecht, returned to the stadium where his playing career ended to lead his national team in the city of his birth. With a decorated playing career at clubs like Newcastle United, Liverpool, and Manchester City, and as a former Wales international captain with 78 caps and 19 goals, Bellamy’s arrival has sparked considerable anticipation. But would his team deliver a performance worthy of his legacy?

First half action

From the outset, Wales looked sharp. Brennan Johnson linked up effectively with Connor Roberts down the right wing, with Wales Captain Aaron Ramsey narrowly heading over the bar after just six minutes. The right flank proved a rich source of attacking opportunities, and Wales played with notable confidence. Twice from set pieces, Wales came close—first Ben Davies had a shot deflected, then Joe Rodon headed over from the resulting corner. Sorba Thomas, a standout performer throughout the match, thought he had opened his international account after a brilliant Aaron Ramsey pass, but his goal was ruled out for offside.

Wales’ first-half display was particularly impressive, with Bellamy’s team keeping Turkey’s talented forward line at bay. The visitors, with only one chance from Arda Güler that was well blocked, struggled to impose themselves. Aaron Ramsey, playing in a false nine role, was pivotal, leading an offensive and defensive effort that was solid across the board. The question remained: could they maintain this level of performance throughout the full 90 minutes?

Second Half

The second half started at a slightly slower pace, though Wales continued to push forward. Sorba Thomas fired wide from 20 yards early on. Despite a brief resurgence from Turkey, Wales kept creating chances. Brennan Johnson’s effort missed the target, and Harry Wilson came agonizingly close, his shot glancing just wide of the top corner.

Wales were given a significant advantage in the 62nd minute when Turkey’s forward Barış Alper Yılmaz received a second yellow card, reducing the visitors to ten men. Turkey adopted a more defensive stance, while Wales sought to capitalize. Bellamy introduced fresh legs, with Liverpool youngster Lewis Koumas making his competitive home debut and Kieffer Moore offering a physical presence up front. Ollie Cooper, a former Newport County loanee, also made his senior Wales debut, replacing captain Ramsey.

Turkey almost stole the game at the death, but a late header from a corner went straight into goalkeeper Danny Ward’s hands. As the final whistle blew, the match ended goalless, but the Welsh fans left the stadium with spirits high, despite the torrential downpour.

The performance reflected Bellamy’s high-energy, attacking philosophy, although the second half was understandably more measured. With more time to work with his squad, Bellamy will likely refine his tactics and shape the team further. While the draw might not have been the result Wales hoped for, taking a point from a team that recently reached the European Championship quarter-finals is far from disappointing. There are plenty of reasons for optimism if this display is anything to go by.

Wales go into Monday nights match against Montenegro kick off 7.45pm full of confidence.

Full Time: Wales 0 – 0 Turkey

Written by Stephen Howell

Written by: Ian.Lamsdale

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