Historic highs, sweeping change – 2024 for Wales’ national teams
Wales have become accustomed to playing in big tournaments in recent times, but they got a stark reminder in March when they faltered in their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, eventually losing to Poland on penalties: defeat is What a pain. Play-off final.
The pressure was already on Page, who was sacked after leading Wales to the 2022 World Cup following a goalless draw with Gibraltar and a 4-0 defeat to Slovakia in a June friendly.
Adams once again led the FAW recruitment process and turned to former captain Bellamy, who had not managed a senior team but was building a reputation as a promising coach.
Five months and six games so far and I’m very inspired.
Wales finished top of their Nations League group with three wins and three draws, returning to the top flight and effectively guaranteeing their place in the World Cup play-offs.
Equally important to Bellamy, they instilled what he calls an “identity”, a clear way of playing, both in and out of possession.
“It’s really exciting. Craig is a breath of fresh air,” Adams said.
“Rob Page did a fantastic job. I just felt like it lost a little bit of steam mid-year and we had to make changes to get this thing working again and bring new energy and energy to the industry as a whole. New Focus.”
“Craig really did that. He was very visible. He gave a lot of talks around the country and really engaged with the people of Wales.
“On the pitch I think we need an identity as a team. We need to be a team that has more possession of the ball, shows a level of courage, is able to take the ball and possess it more.”
“Craig did it very quickly. I thought it would have taken longer than it did. We’ve managed to expedite the process really well and everyone has been incredible. support. So that’s very positive.”
When Bellamy took over the job, he said his priority was not only to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, but to make an impact once there – just as Wales failed to do in Qatar two years ago.
Wales are in a qualifying group with Belgium, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan and Liechtenstein, with the competition due to start in March 2025.
“It’s important for Craig to have a clear idea of the direction he wants to take at the World Cup,” Adams said.
“We have a really good squad and I think the draw was pretty favourable. We’re really looking forward to next year.”
