Bellamy Marks First Win As Wales Coach In Nation's League Challenge

Add as a preferred source on Google

Craig Bellamy commended his team for overcoming challenging conditions to secure his first victory as Wales head coach against Montenegro in the Nations League. Kieffer Moore scored within 36 seconds at Stadion Kraj Bistrice, marking the fastest goal for Wales since Robert Earnshaw's in 2004.

Wales doubled their lead just two minutes and 27 seconds into the match when Harry Wilson netted a long-range shot. This was the first time since April 1961 that Wales had scored twice within the opening three minutes of a game, giving Bellamy an ideal start.

The rain-soaked pitch in Montenegro made playing conditions difficult, allowing Driton Camaj to score for the hosts in the 73rd minute. Despite this, Wales managed to hold on and secure their first win of their Nations League campaign, building on their strong performance against Turkiye.

"These are the toughest conditions I've been in. Nothing about coming here has been easy," Bellamy said. "You could have had a lot of excuses about this trip. The change of venue, the travel here, a bus driver who took his time, the conditions. But sometimes you learn from it."

Bellamy highlighted that there is a reason why this group has qualified for major tournaments. "It wasn't a football match. The conditions weren't going to allow it," he added.

Unbeaten Streak Continues

Wales are now unbeaten in their last eight competitive fixtures (W4 D4), marking their longest such run since an 11-game streak between September 2019 and November 2020. Bellamy's appointment has seemingly revitalised Welsh football with his expansive and exciting style of play catching attention across Europe.

The Dragons will return to action next month against Iceland and Montenegro again, something Bellamy eagerly anticipates. "Last night I was really excited about the game but also sad as it ends tomorrow," Bellamy said. "What happens on Tuesday? They're all going to leave me and I don't want them to go."

Bellamy expressed his desire for quick wins but also emphasised his long-term vision for the team. "You want your first win of course and you want it quick. Longer-term I see us being able to affect games in a positive way," he stated.

This victory not only boosts morale but also sets a promising tone for future matches under Bellamy's leadership.