HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Wales Women's World Cup Qualification Concern

BBC Sport Football •
×

Wales kept their Women's World Cup hopes alive with a hard-fought 1-0 victory in Albania, but concerns remain about their performance against defensive teams. Despite dominating possession, the Welsh side struggled to break down Albania's deep defensive block, scoring only a scrappy goal that went in off defender Roberts' arm. Ex-Wales striker Helen Ward noted the absence of Jessica Fishlock has left a creative gap someone must fill.

Victory means Wales remain second in Group B1 behind the Czech Republic on goal difference. The team now faces a crucial match against Montenegro on June 5 before finishing with what could be a pivotal fixture against the Czechs in Cardiff. Forward Ingle acknowledged Albania's defensive prowess and admitted Wales were "quite lucky at times" as they nearly conceded on counter-attacks.

Wales will need to improve significantly if they are to overcome the Czech Republic, who beat Albania 5-1 in the reverse fixture. The two teams drew 2-2 in their opening encounter, with head-to-head records likely to separate them if they finish level on points. Ingle described the potential final match at home in Cardiff as a "really special night," but Wales must show better fluency than they displayed in Albania to secure their first World Cup qualification.