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Wales managed to scrape past Liechtenstein with a 1-0 win in their FIFA World Cup European Qualifying Group J match, securing a narrow yet vital victory on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the Rheinpark Stadion in Vaduz. Jordan James's goal in the 61st minute provided the only score in the match, ensuring Wales's hopes of qualifying for the World Cup 2026 play-offs remain alive.
The game was a test of patience for Wales, who dominated possession and territory against Liechtenstein, a nation ranked 206th in the world out of 210. Liechtenstein’s resilient defense, bolstered by a mix of professional players and part-time athletes, held firm for much of the match, keeping the Welsh offense at bay.
Despite their numerical advantage, Wales found it difficult to penetrate Liechtenstein’s deep defensive setup. The match remained goalless until the second half, when James broke the deadlock. In a moment of tactical brilliance, Williams played a precise pass to James, who evaded the home defense with a deft move. James then delivered a cross that found Jordan James unmarked, who finished clinically to give Wales the lead.
James’s goal came as a relief for the 3,000 traveling Welsh fans who had packed the stadium to support their team. However, the joy was short-lived as both James and Ethan Ampadu picked up yellow cards later in the match, ruling them out of the crucial final group game against North Macedonia on Tuesday. This suspension could be a significant blow to Wales, as both players are key figures in the team.
With the match hanging in the balance, the stakes were raised further when Welsh manager Craig Bellamy was forced to watch the game from the stands. Bellamy received a touchline ban after accumulating two yellow cards in previous matches. His assistant, Piet Cremers, took charge of the technical area, adding an element of unfamiliarity to the team’s setup.
The defeat further solidifies Liechtenstein’s position at the bottom of Group J, having failed to score in their six qualifying matches to date. Despite their limited resources, the team showed impressive resolve, conceding just once in this match and frustrating the more illustrious Welsh side.
Looking ahead, Wales face North Macedonia in their final group game, a match that will determine who secures second place in Group J and a play-off spot. A win for Wales will not only secure them a favorable draw in the play-offs but also mark a significant milestone in their qualification journey.
As the match concluded, the focus swiftly shifted to the upcoming clash with North Macedonia. Wales must now regroup and strategize without their suspended midfielders, while Liechtenstein will likely look to build on their strong defensive performance.
Wales’ victory over Liechtenstein was far from convincing, but it was enough to keep their World Cup aspirations alive. The team now faces a daunting task: overcoming North Macedonia to claim second place in Group J. With the play-off spot on the line, Tuesday’s match will be a defining moment for both teams, as one slip-up could dash hopes of competing on the global stage.
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