Bellamy sure Wales belong as Haaland threat looms

What the report says

Wales manager Craig Bellamy says his team still deserves its place in Nations League A, despite starting the group stage with two defeats. Wales lost 1-0 away to Portugal and 2-0 in Denmark, leaving them without a point in the section and extending their winless run in 2026. The BBC Sport report says Wales have now failed to win any of their eight League A matches across the current campaign and their previous appearance at this level in 2022.

Bellamy’s side now face another difficult test at Cardiff City Stadium on Thursday, when they host Norway and striker Erling Haaland, before meeting Denmark again. Bellamy described the level in League A as a step up in intensity and quality, but said Wales had earned promotion from League B and should be competing against Europe’s strongest sides. He also said Norway look set to remain a major force for years because of the investment behind their national team and club football.

The wider context is that Wales are trying to avoid going through a full calendar year without a win for the first time since 1989, which would increase scrutiny on Bellamy in his first international window since reports linked him with the Burnley job. Denmark coach Brian Riemer, meanwhile, praised Bellamy’s work and said Wales remain capable of causing problems despite their poor start.