The Welsh Women are usually not at the front of football fans’ minds when it comes to powerhouses on the pitch. However, they made their team known when they shocked the world with a 4-0 win in their first Euros Qualifying game. Under new manager, Rhian Wilkinson – former Portland Thorns coach – Wales saw success right from the jump. Is this the start of a new era for this UK-based country that has so long been in the shadow of the Lionesses?
Wilkinson’s New Wales Team Shocked Croatia in the Euro 2025 Qualifier
Wales kick off their Women’s Euro 2025 qualifying campaign against Croatia in Wrexham. Join @catheledd for live coverage.
Match of the Day Wales
Friday at 7pm on BBC One Wales pic.twitter.com/r5xwLPsROi— BBC Wales ??????? (@BBCWales) April 3, 2024
For NWSL fans, the name Jess Fishlock should sound familiar. She has been a long-time player in the U.S.-based league, bagging goals and providing assists for other stars like Megan Rapinoe. But it was her time to shine in the first Euros game, as she scored two goals to help Wales win comfortably.
Fishlock’s two goals brought her even closer to the all-time goal-scoring record for her country. If she keeps up her fine form, chances are she will be able to break the record before qualifiers are up.
The other goal scorers, Rowe and James, added a goal each to help Wales cruise past the stunned Croatia.
How It Happened In Real Time – Wales vs. Croatia
So, what really happened that led Croatia to crumble under the surprising pressure of the Welsh team?
First off, Wilkinson praised the versatility and youth in her squad. Rhian stated that the ‘youth movement’ brought much-needed energy to the stagnated team, breathing new life into the players. Along with bringing in hungry younger players, she aims to qualify for the Euros – the first ever for this tiny country.
‘We can’t think that far ahead. We know we’ve got three FIFA windows before we even get to the first play-off…we talk about it in terms of vision clarity and making sure we’re all heading in the same direction.’
Staying focused and playing game by game seems to be the tactic for the new boss.
Second, Wilkinson focused on allowing her fullbacks to get higher and wider up the pitch. This provided more attacking options for Wales to put the pressure on Croatia from the start. Fishlock and Rowe were able to press higher and be more creative on and off the ball.
Finally, Wales kept the ball well. Even early in the game, they had 81% possession. That type of dominance is something the fans want to see more of as they challenge harder opponents.
About the Author
Emma is an athlete and sports fan who currently plays professional soccer. Growing up, she reached a high level in track and field, distance running, and soccer on both club and university teams.