News Focus
- Wales lose 2-1 to Romania in a friendly clash at the Stadionul Steaua
- Craig Bellamy criticises slow ball movement and lack of penetration in the final third
- Defeat extends Wales’ run without a victory to four matches in 2026
- David Brooks scores the consolation but admits the performance was not good enough
- Wales prepare for a difficult Nations League A campaign against Portugal, Denmark and Norway
Craig Bellamy has demanded higher standards from his Wales squad after they suffered a 2-1 defeat against Romania in a friendly international.
The Welsh side fell to goals from Florinel Coman and Adrian Rus in Bucharest. David Brooks found the net for the visitors in the 63rd minute, but it was not enough to prevent Gheorghe Hagi from securing his first victory as Romania manager since his appointment in April.
Bellamy could not conceal his frustration following the final whistle. The result means Wales have still not claimed victory in an away friendly match since 2008.
“Disappointing,” the Wales manager stated during his post-match press conference. “We showed some positive moments, but the negatives were too many. We simply must improve.”
He highlighted specific tactical concerns about his team’s approach on the pitch. “We did not create enough opportunities in the final third. Our build-up play was too deep and slow. We need to break lines and attack the defence more regularly.”
Wales dominated possession with 57 per cent of the ball and registered nine shots on target. However, Ethan Ampadu, Brennan Johnson and substitute Lewis Koumas all wasted clear chances to score.
The loss extends Wales’ poor form to four matches without a win in 2026. Their last victory came in November when they defeated North Macedonia 7-1.
Attention now turns to the Nations League A later this year. Wales will compete against Portugal, Denmark and Norway in a challenging group.
Goalscorer Brooks echoed his manager’s concerns. “We were not good enough,” he told BBC Match of the Day Wales. “We kept possession well, but we did not make enough penetrating passes. We must be miles better when the Nations League begins.”