Women's World Playoff: Wales aim for feat
By OnzeActu · · 5 min read
Wales are preparing to face Albania in the qualifying play-offs for the Women's World Cup, with their sights set on a possible reunion against Gemma Grainger, now at the helm of Norway.
Why it matters
The match between Wales and Albania represents a crucial step for the Welsh in their quest for a first qualification for the Women's World Cup. The pressure is on, especially with the prospect of facing Gemma Grainger, former Welsh coach, if they manage to get through this round. The team's performance could also influence the future of the players, particularly those who emerged under Grainger's leadership.
Context
Gemma Grainger, who successfully managed Wales, took over the reins of the Norwegian team at the start of 2024. Under her leadership, Wales had reached a high competitive level, coming close to qualifying for the 2023 Women's World Cup. Her potential return as a play-off opponent could create an interesting dynamic between herself and her former team.
Key points
- Women's World Play-off: Wales aim for feat.
- Wales are preparing to face Albania in the qualifying play-offs for the Women's World Cup, with their sights set on a possible reunion against Gemma Grainger, now at the helm of Norway.
- Women's World Cup qualifying play-offs: Gemma Grainger reunion looms as Wales face Albania - BBC Sport.
Under the leadership of Grainger, Wales came close to qualifying for the 2023 World Cup, only losing in overtime to Switzerland. Appointed coach in 2021, she managed to raise the Welsh selection to an unprecedented level, allowing it to attract new supporters and launch players like Ceri Holland into the first team. But since her departure at the start of 2024 to take charge of Norway, Grainger has not been forgotten: “She has been very important for our progress,” underlines Lily Woodham. On the Norwegian side, the machine seems well established: favorites against Romania in the other semi-final, the Scandinavians should logically qualify.
Before thinking about this possible prestigious opposition, Wales must be serious against Albania, 67th in the FIFA rankings, 36 places behind them. During qualifying, the Welsh dominated Albania with a big 4-0 victory at Wrexham then a narrow 1-0 success away. However, the absence due to injury of Ceri Holland, centerpiece of the Welsh environment, could be felt, especially as she was already absent during these previous confrontations.
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The Welsh know that they will have to show solidity away from home, where their results have sometimes been too fair: a sluggish victory against Albania, draws on the road against Montenegro or the Czech Republic. Captain Woodham nevertheless remains confident: “There is no doubt in the group, we know that we have the potential to succeed.”
In the event of qualification, the challenge will be immense against Grainger's Norway, 14th in the world and regularly present in major international events. Until now, Wales have never beaten a nation in the world's top 20 in an official match, but this generation hopes to continue to shake up the codes, after having broken the curse by qualifying for Euro 2025.
However, it may be necessary to go through a final intercontinental barrage, depending on the complexity of the format. But the Welsh dynamic and the progress under Wilkinson suggest a possible historic first participation in the World Cup. The stated objective: to build on their recent participation in the Euro to take a new step towards the biggest global meeting.
The rest
After the first leg against Albania, Wales will prepare for the return to Llanelli, where a victory is essential to progress into the play-offs. If they manage to qualify, they could face Gemma Grainger's Norway in the play-off final, a clash which promises to be charged with emotion and rivalry. Wales will need to focus on their game and overcome the absence of Ceri Holland to maximize their chances.
Frequently asked questions
What's going on with the Wales team?
Wales face Albania in the semi-final first leg of the European play-offs in a bid to qualify for the Women's World Cup.
Who confirmed Gemma Grainger's importance to Wales?
Lily Woodham highlighted that Gemma Grainger was very important to the progress of the Welsh team.
Why should Wales focus on Albania now?
Wales must show seriousness against Albania before considering a blowout
he final against Gemma Grainger and Norway.
What are the consequences of Ceri Holland's absence for Wales?
The absence of Ceri Holland, centerpiece of the Welsh midfielder, could be felt during the match against Albania.
What changes have taken place in the Wales team since the departure of Gemma Grainger?
Gemma Grainger left her role as Wales manager at the start of 2024 to manage Norway, having led the team to an unprecedented level.