Robert Page, the Wales manager, is beaming with pride as his team responded to criticism with a resounding 2-0 victory over Latvia in the Euro 2024 qualifying match. This win marks only the second victory in 14 matches for Wales, and it couldn’t have come at a better time for Page, who was under intense pressure before the game.
Critics had been relentless, especially after Wales’ disappointing defeats to Armenia and Turkey in June, which seriously jeopardized their chances of qualifying for Euro 2024. However, the team didn’t let external pressures affect their spirit.
“The pressure came from the outside, understandably, but we never questioned it within the group,” Page emphasized.
The turning point in the match came in the 29th minute when captain Aaron Ramsey calmly converted a penalty. Then, in injury time, David Brooks sealed the deal with another goal. This victory was not just about securing three points; it was about proving a point. The Welsh players displayed their determination and character.
“We knew we had to give a positive reaction after the disappointment of June, and we absolutely have – and some,” Page declared.
What’s most striking about this victory is the camaraderie within the team. Page couldn’t be prouder of his players and the atmosphere they’ve created in the camp.
“I’m extremely proud of the players. I think the camp has been outstanding. I’ve got a group of players in there who enjoy playing football for me,” he said.
Page went on to highlight the unity and spirit within the squad. Even those who didn’t make it onto the pitch played their part, and there’s no hint of discord in the changing room.
“Pressure doesn’t exist, it is what’s created from outside influence,” Page asserted.
While this win might have temporarily eased the pressure on Page, his future as the manager will still be reviewed by senior figures at the Football Association of Wales. It’s been a rollercoaster journey for Page, who was hailed as a national hero last year for leading Wales to a World Cup for the first time since 1958. However, the subsequent string of poor results put him under scrutiny.
But Page remains unfazed by the noise from critics. “I don’t get bogged down with all that. That’s noise that I don’t need. I know I am doing all right when I look in the mirror,” he confidently stated.
What shines through is Page’s belief in his players and their collective desire to win. For him, it’s not just about playing attractive football; it’s about securing those crucial victories. And with the team’s winning mentality and the support of his staff, he’s looking ahead to the next camp with great anticipation.
Wales’ upcoming fixtures include a friendly against Gibraltar in Wrexham on 11 October and a Euro 2024 qualifying match against Croatia at Cardiff City Stadium four days later. Despite being fourth in Group D, they’re just three points behind second-placed Turkey. Page is optimistic about their chances and said, “We have put ourselves right back in there. Three points to second place – it’s in our hands.”
In the end, it’s clear that Robert Page and his Welsh squad are focused on their goal of qualification and are ready to face whatever challenges come their way. This victory in Latvia is not just a win; it’s a testament to their resilience and determination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Keyword: Resilience
Q: Why was Wales manager Robert Page under pressure before the match against Latvia?
A: Robert Page was under pressure due to Wales’ disappointing defeats to Armenia and Turkey in June, which had seriously threatened their chances of qualifying for Euro 2024.
Q: How did Wales respond to the external criticism?
A: Wales responded with a resounding 2-0 victory over Latvia, showcasing their determination and character on the field. They proved that they could handle external pressure.
Q: What was the key moment in the match against Latvia?
A: The pivotal moment came in the 29th minute when Wales’ captain, Aaron Ramsey, calmly converted a penalty. This goal set the tone for their victory.
Q: How does Robert Page view the unity within the team?
A: Robert Page is extremely proud of the unity and camaraderie within the squad. He emphasized that even those who didn’t play a part on the field contributed positively, and there’s no discord in the changing room.
Q: What is Robert Page’s attitude towards criticism and his future as the manager?
A: Page remains unfazed by criticism and is confident in his abilities. He stated that he doesn’t get bogged down by external noise and believes in himself as a manager.
Q: What are Wales’ upcoming fixtures?
A: Wales has a friendly match against Gibraltar in Wrexham on 11 October and a Euro 2024 qualifying match against Croatia at Cardiff City Stadium four days later. They are optimistic about their chances of qualification.
More about Keyword: Resilience
- Wales manager Robert Page ‘proud’ of Wales response to criticism with win in Latvia (BBC Sport)
- Euro 2024 qualifying victory in Riga (Euro 2024 Qualifiers Official Website)
- Robert Page’s career as Wales manager (Football Association of Wales)
- Wales’ performance in Euro 2024 qualifiers (Euro 2024 Qualifiers Official Website)
