Wales Held to Embarrassing Goalless Draw in Gibraltar
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Gibraltar, March 24, 2023
– Wales’ hopes of securing a vital win in their UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying campaign suffered a major setback as they were held to a humiliating 0-0 draw by lowly Gibraltar. The match was expected to be a routine victory for the higher-ranked Wales, who came into the game unbeaten in their qualification group. However, the tiny nation of Gibraltar, ranked 195th in the FIFA World Rankings, put up a valiant display and frustrated their more illustrious opponents. Wales dominated possession and had plenty of chances to score, but they lacked the cutting edge in front of goal. Gareth Bale, Kieffer Moore, and Brennan Johnson all had golden opportunities but failed to find the net. Gibraltar, on the other hand, grew in confidence as the game progressed and threatened Wales on the counterattack. Lee Casciaro had the best chance for the hosts in the second half, but his effort crashed against the crossbar. The result leaves Wales with just two points from their first three qualification matches, which is a significant setback to their hopes of reaching the finals in Germany. Gibraltar, meanwhile, earned their first point in the group and will take great confidence from holding such a highly-rated team to a draw.
Reaction from Wales Manager Rob Page:
“I’m very disappointed with the result. We had enough chances to win the game, but we didn’t take them. Gibraltar defended well, but we should have been good enough to break them down.”
Reaction from Gibraltar Manager Julio Ribas:
“This is a historic result for us. We showed great heart and determination against a very strong Welsh team. I’m so proud of my players for their performance today.” The result has sent shockwaves through Wales and will raise questions about the team’s ability to qualify for the Euros. They will face Ireland in their next qualification match on March 27, a game they must win to keep their hopes alive.Wales were held to an embarrassing goalless draw in Gibraltar in their penultimate match before the World Cup. The Dragons were heavy favourites to beat their part-time opponents, but they were unable to break down a resolute Gibraltarian defence. Wales had the lion’s share of possession and chances, but they were wasteful in front of goal. Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Kieffer Moore all had good opportunities to score, but they were unable to find the net. Gibraltar goalkeeper Dayle Coleing made a number of fine saves to keep Wales at bay. The 24-year-old produced a particularly impressive stop to deny Bale from close range in the second half. The draw leaves Wales with just one win from their last five matches. They will now face Austria in their final warm-up game before the World Cup. Wales manager Robert Page said: “We’re disappointed with the result. We created enough chances to win the game, but we just couldn’t take them. We need to be more clinical in front of goal.” Gibraltar manager Julio Ribas said: “This is a historic result for Gibraltar. We knew it would be difficult against Wales, but we defended resolutely and made it difficult for them to create chances. We’re very proud of our players.”
