Gareth Bale once again came to Wales’ rescue, as the captain’s late penalty salvaged a draw against the United States in his country’s first World Cup game in 64 years.
Wales was listless and outmatched in the first half, which was dominated by a vibrant USA team led by Tim Weah, who finished smartly after a surging run and pass by Christian Pulisic.
The introduction of striker Kieffer Moore at halftime energised Wales, transforming a one-sided affair into a genuine contest as Ben Davies and Moore both came close to equalising.
With nine minutes remaining, the previously anonymous Bale was clattered in the box by Walker Zimmerman before confidently whipping his penalty into the net, sending the travelling Welsh supporters into raptures.
Wales finished the game strongly, buoyed by the fact that they had earned a point on their long-awaited World Cup return when they appeared to be heading for defeat and an early exit from the competition.
Instead, Robert Page’s men will return to the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium on Friday to face Iran, who were thrashed 6-2 by England earlier in the day, knowing that a win would put them in the second round.
Also read: Saka scores twice as England thrash Iran in the 2022 World cup opener
Wales’ group stage campaign concludes a week Tuesday against England, but they can focus on this comeback and what it means for their chances of extending their World Cup adventure.
Source: BBC Sport
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