Craig Bellamy’s team achieves a remarkable victory to earn promotion in the UEFA Nations League.

**Wales Secure Promotion with Thrilling 4-1 Victory Over Iceland**

In a dazzling display of resilience and skill, Wales triumphed over Iceland with a commanding 4-1 victory at Cardiff City Stadium on November 19, 2024. The win not only showcased the team’s fighting spirit but also secured their promotion to the top tier of the UEFA Nations League.

The stage was set for a dramatic encounter, with Craig Bellamy’s side knowing that a win would guarantee their ascent, provided Turkey dropped points in their match. However, the Welsh team faced an early setback when Andri Gudjohnsen, son of the legendary Eidur, put Iceland ahead in the eighth minute. Gudjohnsen’s neat finish slipped through the legs of goalkeeper Danny Ward, who had earlier made a stunning save to deny Orri Oskarsson.

Wales, undeterred by the early goal, found their rhythm just after the half-hour mark. Liam Cullen emerged as the hero of the night, glancing a deft header into the far corner from Brennan Johnson’s inswinging cross to level the score. The momentum shifted further just before half-time when Cullen struck again, sliding in to convert the rebound after Dan James had his initial effort saved by Iceland’s Rafin Valdirmarsson, following some excellent build-up play from Mark Harris.

The second half saw Wales continue to dominate, with Tottenham Hotspur’s in-form Brennan Johnson making it 3-1 in the 65th minute. Cullen turned provider this time, delivering a sublime pass that allowed Johnson to finish with precision, leaving the Icelandic defence in disarray.

The icing on the cake came from Fulham midfielder Harry Wilson, who capped off a stellar performance with a sensational strike from outside the area. Once again, it was Cullen who played a pivotal role, showing remarkable determination to chase down a long punt from Ward and hold off Iceland centre-back Sverrir Ingason before setting up Wilson for the finish.

With the victory secured, Wales had done everything in their power to clinch promotion. Fortune smiled upon them as Montenegro defeated Turkey in the other fixture, confirming The Dragons as group winners and sending Turkey into the play-offs.

This emphatic win not only highlights the depth of talent within the Welsh squad but also sets the stage for an exciting future in the UEFA Nations League. The celebrations in Cardiff were a testament to the team’s hard work and determination, as they look forward to competing at the highest level.