There were celebrations all round in the Welsh dressing room last weekend as Sophie Ingle’s 150th cap was marked with a 1-0 victory away in Albania.
Ingle was named captain for the milestone appearance, becoming only the second Welsh player, after Jess Fishlock, to reach the landmark.
Wales Does Just Enough for the Win
In a slightly scrappy affair, Rhiannon Roberts bundled in from Lily Woodham’s cross to score the only goal of the game. The effort stood despite Albanian protests amid suggestions the ball came off the Wales defender’s arm.
Even once they’d edged in front, the contest was far from straightforward for Wales.
Ilarja Zarka rattled the bar after the break, and goalkeeper Safia Middleton-Patel was called into action late on to claw Fortesa Berisha’s header away from the goal as Wales held on for a nervy three points.
Sophie Ingle herself thought she had scored from a corner after heading in from close range, but a tight offside call denied her what would have been a memorable 10th international goal.
What’s Next for Wales?
Wales have 10 points from four Group B1 games but trail leaders Czech Republic on goal difference.
Wilkinson’s side travel to Montenegro on 5 June before finishing the group qualifying stages at home to the Czechs in Cardiff – a game that looks likely to decide who finishes top and secures a more favourable draw in the play-offs.
“We have Montenegro away, and then we finish at home to the Czech Republic, so it could all ride on that last game,” Sophie Ingle said after the Welsh victory in Albania.
“Being at home in Cardiff, it will be a really special night.”
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