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Wales Miss Top Spot Chance After Controversial Montenegro Draw

BBC Sport Football •
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Wales squandered their opportunity to take control of Group B1 as they stumbled to a 1-1 draw with Montenegro in Podgorica. Jasna Djokovic's late equalizer left the visitors frustrated, particularly after a controversial moment involving Wales' Hughes, whose second-half effort appeared to cross the line but was cleared by Sladjana Bulatovic.

Manager Gemma Wilkinson acknowledged her team's shortcomings, stating they were 'not good enough' on the night. The result meant Wales missed a chance to put themselves in a favorable position heading into Tuesday's decisive clash with the Czech Republic. Had they won, a draw against the Czechs would have secured first place and a more advantageous play-off draw.

Instead, Wales now face a must-win scenario against the Czechs, who they drew with in the opening match of the qualifying campaign. The late equalizer from Djokovic proved decisive in keeping the group race alive, while Wilkinson expressed frustration at the lack of VAR technology that could have awarded Wales' disputed goal.

The draw leaves both teams level on points heading into their final group fixture, with the winner advancing to the play-offs. Wilkinson remains confident it will be a close game but knows her side must capitalize on their opportunities this time.