Dai has a look at what we’ve learned from Cymru’s group stage performances. This post was originally a Twitter thread @colemans_dream. You can link to that thread at the end of the post.
A few thoughts in a thread now we are out of the group. It was a tougher group than a lot is us initially expected. An Italy team in imperious form, a talented Swiss side and what seemed a tough nut to crack in Turkey. Ultimately we’ve done what we needed to do so far.
We weren’t great against Switzerland and were a touch lucky with Ward making some massively important saves. The important reality is that we got a result when we perhaps didn’t deserve one. That quality has been a feature of this side.
Embed from Getty ImagesItaly hammering Turkey certainly helped us out, in terms of how we (and they) approached that game. I don’t think it was quite the performance that some are making out but we were very good for large spells of the game. The second late goal was vital as it happens too!
The Italy game was handled and managed pretty well. Bale scores his chance and we probably draw 1-1. Kept the scoreline down and saw out the game to an extent, given the red card. A very poor decision too in my view. Out of the group and in 2nd place. Perfect.
Embed from Getty ImagesNegatives so far: Bale lacking form (14 games without a goal I think), and the yellow card situation. Moore, Davies, Meps, Allen and Gunter all on a yellow. Ampadu also suspended for a game too. That’s a lot walking a tightrope and we need to be more savvy.
Set pieces defensively have not been good. Last night and against the Swiss we’ve conceded from set plays. Hopefully we can work on that this week.
Embed from Getty ImagesPositives. We’re out of the group. Now the tournament really starts. We’ve done what we needed to and we are in decent form. 2 losses in 14 – to Italy and Belgium. I’ll take that. There’s a big performance to come too. I can feel it!
Ward has been outstanding. Bale has contributed despite not being his best so there is further improvement to come. Ramsey (particularly against Turkey) is superb. All of our other players have been solid and effective for the most part.
Embed from Getty ImagesWe are using a system which suits us and our best players. When things gel (and they will!) I think we will be a threat to anyone. Get into the quarters and anything is possible. Come on Wales.
A few thoughts in a thread now we are out of the group. It was a tougher group than a lot is us initially expected. An Italy team in imperious form, a talented Swiss side and what seemed a tough nut to crack in Turkey. Ultimately we’ve done what we needed to do so far. #wal
— Coleman Had A Dream – Gêm Y Wlad (@Colemans_Dream) June 21, 2021
Photo credits: Image of Joe Rodon Presidential Press and Information Office’s of Azerbaijan. All other photos from Getty Images.