The Wales national football team is in transition under new head coach Craig Bellamy. With a blend of experienced veterans and rising stars, they aim to make an impact in the UEFA Nations League while pursuing World Cup qualification. Let’s explore the standout players, their form, and how Wales is navigating international competition under Bellamy’s leadership.

How Wales are currently performing in the Nations League

Wales are competing in Group B4 of the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League under new head coach Craig Bellamy. Their start to the campaign has been mixed but promising, with a 0-0 draw against Turkey and a 2-1 victory against Montenegro. 

These results have built a solid foundation, though there’s pressure on Wales to maintain their momentum in their upcoming matches against Iceland and Montenegro in October, with football odds suggesting a tight battle for group dominance.

Bellamy has brought fresh tactics and urgency to the squad, but converting chances into goals has been a challenge. With key players like Aaron Ramsey and Brennan Johnson, Wales have the talent to turn things around. Securing victories in the next few fixtures will be crucial if they are to remain competitive in the group.

Craig Bellamy’s impact

Since taking over as head coach in July 2024, Craig Bellamy has made a notable impact on the Wales national team. Renowned for his tenacity during his playing career, Bellamy has brought the same intensity to his coaching role. 

His focus on high-pressing, attacking football is evident, with an emphasis on improving Wales’ forward play and overall team cohesion. Bellamy’s experience as a former Welsh international gives him unique insight into the squad’s dynamics. 

His ability to nurture younger talents, like Brennan Johnson and Neco Williams, while balancing the influence of veterans such as Aaron Ramsey, is helping to reshape the team’s identity. While early results in the Nations League have been positive, Bellamy’s tactical evolution will be key as the team continues to adapt to his system.

Wales’ shining stars

• Aaron Ramsey: A key leader in the squad, Ramsey brings creativity and control to the midfield. His experience and ability to manage both attack and defence make him indispensable in high-pressure matches.
• Daniel James: James is a crucial winger known for his blistering pace and ability to break down defences. His work rate and growing maturity continue to elevate his impact in attack.
• Brennan Johnson: A standout forward, Johnson’s agility, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability have made him a rising star for Wales, with impressive performances translating from club to country.
• Ethan Ampadu: Versatile and composed, Ampadu’s defensive stability and ability to play across the back and midfield make him a vital part of Wales’ tactical setup.
• Neco Williams: The young full-back combines attacking flair with defensive reliability. His pace and overlapping runs add width and creativity to Wales’ wide play.
• Ben Davies: A consistent presence in defence, Davies provides experience and leadership, contributing both as a central defender and a left-back, ensuring Wales remain organised at the back.

Looking ahead to World Cup qualification prospects

The road to World Cup qualification presents both challenges and promise for Wales. Under Bellamy’s guidance, the team has shown resilience, combining experienced leaders like Ramsey with emerging talents. Consistent performances in the National League are key to improving their qualification odds, as upcoming fixtures will be crucial tests.

While recent form has been encouraging, the team must remain focused to navigate their competitive group. With Ramsey’s leadership and young players stepping up, Wales has the balance and spirit to push for World Cup qualification.

THE SENIOR CUP returned on Saturday (Oct 19) with a highly anticipated fixture between Division 2 high-flyers Camrose and Division 3 promotion favourites Pendine.

While Camrose appeared to have the upper hand on paper, with more quality and depth, cup football often serves up its fair share of surprises.

Pendine arrived at Camrose with just a bare 11, facing an injury-hit home side, but both teams showed great spirit as they took to a beautifully maintained pitch under a bright afternoon sky. A decent crowd gathered to watch Referee Marty Jones get the match underway, with Camrose initially controlling the opening stages.

Pendine, however, soon found their footing. Despite the expectation of being underdogs, the visitors began to play some good football themselves. Veteran defender Julian Blewitt marshalled his backline effectively, while Dan Potter caused problems for the Camrose defence.

Although Camrose had flashes of brilliance, particularly from the ever-dangerous Joe Howarth, they couldn’t break through before the half-time whistle and Pendine went into the break on level terms, sensing that an upset might be brewing.

The second half began with a bang, as Camrose wasted no time taking the lead. In the 46th minute, Jordan Raymond latched onto a ball behind the Pendine defence and slotted home with composure, giving the home side a 1-0 advantage. From that point, Pendine were forced to open up, and while they continued to pose a threat, gaps began to appear in their midfield and defence.

Camrose capitalised on these opportunities with ruthless efficiency. Joe Howarth added his name to the scoresheet, Raymond grabbed a second, and evergreen striker Martyn Tweedie rolled back the years with a well-taken goal, outpacing the tiring Pendine defence (yes, really) to make it four. Pendine, to their credit, fought valiantly and managed to pull two goals back, but their lack of substitutes and aging legs left them vulnerable as Camrose cruised to a comfortable 5-2 victory, with Raymond completing his hat trick late on.

Pendine’s performance underlined why they’re flying high in Division 3, and once back to full strength, they’ll undoubtedly be a force to reckon with. As for Camrose, they’ll take great confidence from this result as they progress to the next round of the Senior Cup.

In a game played in excellent spirits, there wasn’t a single card issued, and both teams enjoyed a warm welcome back at the Camrose clubhouse—testament to the respect and sportsmanship on display.

SENEDD Member, Paul Davies, has taken part in Haverfordwest County AFC’s walk for the Prostate United Challenge.

Mr Davies, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2022, walked just over 3km with first team player and Haverfordwest County Academy Technical Lead, Dan Hawkins and they talked about importance of the Prostate United Challenge.

The Prostate United Challenge encourages football clubs and fans to walk, run or cycle every day in October in an effort to raise funds for Prostate Cancer UK.

Mr Davies said: “I’m grateful to Haverfordwest County for inviting me to join the Prostate United Challenge walk. It’s a cause that’s close to my heart and I’m delighted to have the opportunity to take part.

“1 in 8 men get prostate cancer and I’m one of them. Initiatives like the Prostate United Challenge are a great way of showing support for those living with prostate cancer and help raise much-needed funds for Prostate Cancer UK.

“It was also great to see the progress being made on the 3G pitch, which is currently being constructed and I look forward to home games returning to the Ogi Bridge Meadow Stadium soon.”