(UTVNEWS | COLOMBO) – Daniel James’ late header gave Wales a precious win over the Czech Republic in a fiery World Cup qualifier in which both teams had a man sent off.
The visitors dominated a goalless first half with Jakub Jankto missing several chances, while Gareth Bale wasted the best opportunity of all for Wales.
Czech striker Patrik Schick was shown a straight red card early in the second half for raising his hand to the face of Connor Roberts, who was later sent off for a second booking.
As both sides searched desperately for a winning goal, Bale delivered an inviting cross from the left wing, which James met with a brilliantly directed header to secure Wales’ first win of the campaign.
The result moves Wales up to third place in Group E, one point behind the Czech Republic in second and four adrift of leaders Belgium, albeit having played one game fewer than both.
Despite only being Wales’ second game of the campaign, this fixture already had a heightened sense of significance for both sides.
When the draw was made, Belgium were overwhelming favourites to top Group E and qualify automatically as the world’s number one-ranked team.
As a result, Wales and the Czech Republic were expected to battle it out for second place and a play-off spot, though the visitors might have set their sights higher after drawing with Belgium on Saturday.
Wales may also have felt they could chance their arm for a shot at top spot because winning their Nations League group in November had already all-but guaranteed them a play-off place.