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Women's World Cup qualifying: Wales 'not good enough' in Montenegro draw - Wilkinson

Wales Faces Frustration in Montenegro as Draw Complicates World Cup Qualifying Path

BBC Sport•
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AI Summary

Rhian Wilkinson expressed disappointment after Wales's unexpected draw with Montenegro in the Women's World Cup qualifying match. Despite a first-half penalty from Hannah Cain putting them ahead, Wales faltered, allowing Jasna Djokovic to equalize late in the game.

Wilkinson stated, "That wasn't good enough," highlighting the team's complacency and lack of intensity. She remarked on their tendency to play as if they were superior, which ultimately cost them crucial points in Group B1.

The draw left Wales in a precarious position, having missed the chance to take control of the group. Their rivals for the top spot, the Czech Republic, also stumbled, drawing 1-1 with Albania earlier in the day. A win for Wales would have meant they only needed a draw in their final group game against the Czechs in Cardiff to secure a more favorable playoff position.

Now, Wales must aim for victory against the Czechs, whom they had previously drawn with in their opening match. Wilkinson emphasized the necessity for her team to capitalize on opportunities, acknowledging the frustration shared by the Czech Republic's coach.

The match's narrative could have shifted significantly if goalline technology had been available, as Wales believed Elise Hughes's shot had crossed the line before being cleared by Sladjana Bulatovic. Wilkinson expressed her frustration about the absence of VAR, stating, "I’ll fight for it behind the scenes, but on the night we needed to put the ball away."

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