
Wales complete promotion to A league with comeback win over Iceland in Cardiff to continue resurgent run under Bellamy.
Wales pulled off an improbable return to the Nations League’s top tier to beat Iceland 4-1.
With Iceland two points behind in third place and Wales two points behind in second. Turkey had begun the evening at the top of Group B4.
Andri Gudjohnsen gave Iceland the lead in the seventh minute after Welsh custodian Danny Ward had produced an incredible save from Orri Oskarsson’s header. Wales needed to win at Cardiff City Stadium and was also hoping for a favour from Montenegro.
However, Wales led at half-time thanks to Liam Cullen’s first two international goals. One from Brennan Johnson’s inviting cross and the second assisting Daniel James’ half-saved shot across the line.
After halftime, Cullen assisted Johnson in scoring Wales’ third goal with a cool finish. Harry Wilson scored his fourth goal in five international games with a delicious dipping effort from 20 yards out.
At Cardiff City Stadium, the fourth Welsh goal added to the already joyous atmosphere as supporters screamed “Montenegro” and sang songs about their own side.
With the win, Bellamy is still undefeated in his first six games as head coach of Wales. The outcome will affect the Welsh World Cup qualification campaign the following year.
Wales’ prospects of earning at least a play-off berth are increased if they win their group. And if they escape the Nations League play-offs, their campaign to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico may begin as early as March.
Getting Wales to the World Cup was Bellamy’s top priority when he was hired in the summer.
Securing promotion to the top tier on the first try is a noteworthy accomplishment in and of itself. Even though the former Manchester City and Liverpool forward stated that the main goals of this Nations League campaign were to establish a distinct playing identity and prepare for World Cup qualifying.
Wales would have faced a Nations League promotion play-off in March if they hadn’t won Group B4. Their World Cup qualifying campaign would be pushed back to June or September next year.