A narrow win over Ukraine was enough for Wales to celebrate their first World Cup qualification since 1958.
Wales defeated Ukraine 1-0 in the World Cup playoff final on Sunday. The Dragons ended their 64-year long wait to reach the World Cup, thanks to an own goal from Andriy Yarmolenko.
Wales are in the WORLD CUP!
Ukraine started the game as the better side in Cardiff, controlling the possession early on. However, Wales also managed to create a few serious chances down both flanks.
But then came Wales’ unexpected opener, which changed the course of the game. Following a free-kick from Gareth Bale, Ukraine captain Yarmolenko headed the ball into his side’s net in the 34th minute.
It was exactly what the hosts were looking for, enabling them to move deep into their own half for the rest of the game.
Ukraine intensified their efforts at the beginning of the second period, but Wayne Hennessey prevented them from scoring with a host of incredible saves. The Blue and Yellows looked more and more exhausted as the game reached its final stages.
Wales managed to control the game as they held on to their one-goal lead and reached the World Cup. The Dragons will compete against the United States, England, and Iran in Group B of the Qatar tournament.
Player Ratings
Wales: Hennessey (9), Roberts (6), Rodon (7), B Davies (7), N Williams (8), Ampadu (6), Ramsey (6), Allen (6), James (7), Moore (6), Bale (7).
Bench: Wilson (6), Norrington-Davies (-), Johnson (7).
Ukraine: Bushchan (6), Karavaev (6), Zabarnyi (7), Matvienko (7), Mykolenko (7), Malinovskyi (7), Stepanenko (6), Zinchenko (7), Yarmolenko (5), Yaremchuk (6), Tsygankov (6).
Bench: Sydorchuk (7), Shaparenko (7), Dovbyk (6), Mudryk (6).
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