Wales Claw Back To Earn Draw With Turkey
Bale Rescues Wales in UEFA Nations League Thriller
Gareth Bale's second-half penalty earned Wales a share of the spoils in a thrilling UEFA Nations League clash with Turkey on Sunday, as the Dragons came from behind in dramatic fashion.
Trailing 2-0 at half-time, Wales looked set for a disappointing evening in Konya. But a spirited second-half performance saw them pull level and earn a point.
Turkey took the lead in the 16th minute when Cengiz Ünder curled home a superb free-kick with his left foot, whilst Hakan Çalhanoğlu doubled the hosts' lead with a stunning strike from outside the area just before the half-time whistle.
Wales, however, came out fighting after the break and reduced the deficit in the 51st minute when Brennan Johnson finished off a fine move. Bale then leveled the scores from the spot in the 64th minute after Johnson was fouled in the area, to the delight of the traveling Welsh fans.
Both sides pushed for a winner in the closing stages, but it was Wales who came closest when substitute Kieffer Moore had a header cleared off the line in the dying minutes.
The result leaves Wales in third place in Group A4, with Turkey bottom of the pile.
Tactics Played Key Role in Wales' Comeback
Wales manager Rob Page made several tactical tweaks at half-time, switching to a 3-5-2 formation and bringing on Johnson and Sorba Thomas. These changes paid off, as Wales looked a much more attacking threat in the second half.
The introduction of Johnson gave Wales an extra attacking outlet, while Thomas provided some much-needed width down the left flank. Page also instructed his team to press Turkey high up the pitch, which forced the hosts into mistakes and led to several promising opportunities for Wales.
Bale Shows His Class
Gareth Bale once again proved his worth to the Wales national team, scoring the equalizer and inspiring his team to a comeback. The Real Madrid forward was a constant threat to the Turkey defense throughout the game, and his penalty was coolly taken.
Bale's performance will give Wales fans hope that they can qualify for the UEFA Nations League finals next year. The Dragons will be back in action in September when they face Belgium and Poland in their remaining Group A4 fixtures.
Craig Bellamy Praises Wales' Character
Former Wales international Craig Bellamy praised the character of the Wales team after their comeback win over Turkey. The Sky Sports pundit said that Wales showed "great spirit" to come from behind and earn a point.
Bellamy also singled out Bale for praise, saying that the Real Madrid forward "was a class apart" and "inspired" his team to victory.
Wales' performance against Turkey will give them confidence heading into their remaining UEFA Nations League fixtures. The Dragons will be hoping to finish top of Group A4 and qualify for the finals next year.
