Tearful Page ‘so proud’ after Wales beat Croatia in Euro qualifier

After a disastrous summer which saw a 4-2 defeat at home to Armenia, followed by a disappointing 2-0 reverse in Istanbul against Turkey, Wales’ automatic qualification hopes looked to have been over.  

With the Welsh manager’s future called into question from some parts, Page’s new young new breed of starlets have now roared back into contention with back-to-back victories over Latvia and the Eastern Europeans. 

A second half double from Fulham forward Harry Wilson earning his 50^th cap for his country proving to be enough to send the home fans into delirium as Wales surged above the World Cup semi-finalists into second place in the group standings. 

On a memorable night in recent times in Welsh football, midfielder Mario Pasalic got one back with fifteen minutes to go for the visitors, but Wales would be resolute in defense in a nervy finale to put their progression hopes to the finals in Germany next summer firmly back in their own hands. 

It will be by no means an easy feat, however, to pick up the two wins to guarantee a qualification top-two spot in the standings. Wins will be needed over Armenia in Yerevan next month and back in South Wales against leaders Turkey. On last night’s showing though Page feels his side are well equipped to complete the job. 

“They’ve proven tonight that they can deliver a performance against a top team”, said Page. 

“Since I have taken over, I can see the respect the players have for me, that they want to play for me, so I don’t need to say anything else outside of that. 

“Let the players do the talking on the pitch. In my team talk before the game we showed them a montage of clips from the camp of training, the key principals and how we are going to play. 

“I said to them in the changing room that it makes you emotional and the hairs on the back of your neck stand up when you see what they are capable of.  

“That two-minute montage with music is incredible, I said to them go and show everyone what you’re capable of doing.  

“Actions speak louder than words. Young JJ [Jordan James] has played like he’s a 30-year-old experienced professional against the best midfielder in World football. 

“It’s an incredible achievement. I get emotional at times because I’m so proud of them. They deserve all the plaudits they’re going to get tonight. 

“We cannot wait to get out there [against Armenia]. I got a group of players and staff that can’t wait to meet up and get ready for the next game. 

[Lead image: Football Association of Wales]