Wales hope pattern continues in Albania return

What the report says

Wales head into Tuesday’s Women’s World Cup qualifying play-off second leg against Albania in Llanelli with a narrow advantage after a 1-0 away win in Shkoder, but BBC Sport reports that the performance left room for improvement. The match followed a familiar pattern for Rhian Wilkinson’s side: Wales have often managed to get results on their travels during qualifying without fully controlling the game, while looking much stronger in their home fixtures.

In Albania, Wales were described as unconvincing in possession and relied on a set-piece goal, when Lily Woodham’s corner was turned into her own net by Ezmiralda Franja. Goalkeeper Safia Middleton-Patel was called on repeatedly to preserve the clean sheet, and Wales were helped by the woodwork and an offside decision. Captain Angharad James said the result and shutout were the main priorities before bringing the tie back home.

BBC Sport noted that Wales are unbeaten in nine matches and are chasing a first Women’s World Cup appearance. Their path would likely lead to a two-legged final against Norway in December if they can finish the job in Llanelli. The article also highlighted that Wales are dealing with several injuries, with nine regular squad members absent in this window, though some returns could strengthen the group later in the campaign.