Wales Prepared for Play-off Final without Bale, Asserts Boss Page
Wales are gearing up for the Euro 2024 play-off final against Poland without their star player Gareth Bale, but manager Robert Page believes that the team is stronger now than when Bale secured qualification for the World Cup 21 months ago. Bale led the Dragons to their first global finals since 1958 with a play-off final winner against Ukraine in Cardiff. However, since then, Wales has lost key players Bale and Joe Allen to retirement. Despite this setback, Page is confident that Wales is in a better position to win the upcoming final.
Here are five key factors that have contributed to Wales’ development since the World Cup qualifier:
1. Life After Bale
Wales was often criticized for being overly reliant on Gareth Bale, who was considered the team’s talisman. Bale’s goals were instrumental in securing Wales’ qualification for the World Cup. However, with his retirement, Page has had to develop alternative strategies and tactics. He now has a Plan A and Plan B due to the increased competition for places in the team. Players like Brennan Johnson, Harry Wilson, and David Brooks have stepped up to fill the void left by Bale’s absence.
2. Need for Speed
Following a disappointing performance at the World Cup, Page identified athleticism as a key area for improvement. The midfield was a problem for Wales in previous tournaments, but players like Ethan Ampadu and Jordan James have brought energy and aggression to the team. The emergence of young talents like Brennan Johnson, Harry Wilson, and David Brooks has also given Wales a more mobile and energetic front three.
3. No Ram Raid
Aaron Ramsey, who remains Wales captain, has been an integral part of the team in the past. However, with the emergence of younger talent, there is no longer a reliance on star players like Ramsey and Bale. Page did not even need to bring Ramsey off the bench in the recent game against Finland, highlighting the depth and quality of the squad.
4. Cap Accumulation
International caps bring valuable experience, and players like Ethan Ampadu and Dan James recently reached their 50th cap milestone. Page credits previous managers Chris Coleman and Ryan Giggs for giving these young players their debuts, which has paved the way for their development and contributed to Wales’ success.
5. Home Rule
Wales has a strong record at home, having lost only three out of 22 home internationals under Page since he took over as manager. Home advantage played a crucial role in their World Cup qualification, and the team hopes that the passionate support of a sell-out crowd at Cardiff City Stadium will help propel them to victory against Poland.
Conclusion
Despite the absence of Gareth Bale, Wales is confident in their ability to win the Euro 2024 play-off final against Poland. Manager Robert Page believes that the team has grown stronger since their World Cup qualification and has developed a depth of talent that can compensate for the loss of key players. With a focus on athleticism, the emergence of young talents, and a solid home record, Wales is well-prepared for the upcoming final. The support of their passionate fans will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their quest for victory.