Wales produced one of their greatest performances to beat Croatia and reignite their hopes of qualifying automatically for Euro 2024 in sensational fashion.
Roared on by a raucous Cardiff City Stadium crowd, Wales thoroughly outplayed the World Cup semi-finalists as Harry Wilson scored two excellent second-half goals on a dream 50th appearance for his country.
Wilson’s first goal was a beautifully-lofted finish after a delicate through ball from David Brooks and his second, a glancing header from a Daniel James cross, sparked pandemonium in the stands.
Jubilation turned to anxiety when Mario Pasalic headed in for Croatia with 15 minutes left, prompting a spell of pressure from the hitherto listless visitors.
But Wales, who would have been further ahead were it not for several fine saves by Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic, dug deep to hold on for victory.
Wales must now beat Armenia and Turkey in their final two qualifiers in November to secure their place at next summer’s tournament in Germany at Croatia’s expense.
If they manage to pull that off, it would represent a remarkable transformation for a side which looked down and out in June when they suffered an embarrassing defeat at home by Armenia before losing in Turkey three days later.
This victory over Croatia, and its seismic boost for Welsh aspirations of automatic qualification, also alleviates much of the pressure on manager Robert Page, who has faced mounting criticism during this campaign.
The job is far from done, though. Wales have already shown that they are capable of losing to Armenia and group leaders Turkey, so they must maintain the high standards they set against Croatia if they are to seal qualification next month.
