Wales’ Women’s World Cup squad left Cardiff at 16:30 BST on Wednesday, aiming for a flight to Podgorica. Electrical storms over the Montenegrin capital forced the plane to divert to the Italian port city of Brindisi. The diversion disrupted the team’s routine and forced overnight stays in Italy for the night again ahead of the Friday match.

The FAW scrambled to book hotels for the squad and re‑route the team back to Podgorica. Officials posted on social media that the flight landed safely in Brindisi, where the players would stay overnight before arranging alternative travel to Montenegro for the Friday evening clash ahead of today.

Wales face Montenegro in Podgorica at 17:00 BST on Friday, their penultimate Group B1 fixture. The win would keep the Welsh side in contention for the final spot, while a loss could derail their campaign. Their next test comes at home against Czech Republic, the group’s other contender for the top place ahead of the final group deadline today.

The diversion and overnight stay disrupt the squad’s preparation rhythm, but the team remains focused on the upcoming match. They must regroup quickly to secure a result that keeps their qualification hopes alive. The FAW’s swift response mitigates the logistical setback, but the players face a tighter timeline than anticipated ahead of the Friday deadline today.