Gareth Bale and Hal Robson-Kanu celebrate qualification. PHOTO/ courtesy
CARDIFF, October 11 – Wales qualified for their first major tournament since 1958 despite losing 2-0 to Bosnia & Herzegovina and Gareth Bale described it as the best loss of his life.
Cyprus’ 2-1 victory in Israel allowed Wales to book their place in next summer’s European Championship, sparking wild celebrations after the final whistle from manager Chris Coleman and his men despite the defeat.
And Bale, who has a Champions League winners’ medal with Real Madrid, claimed helping Wales qualify for Euro 2016 is right up there with the best achievements in his career.
“This is probably the best loss of my life,” the Real Madrid forward said.
“This was a dream of mine and we’ve done it. As you can see everyone is delighted.
“This is right up there. This was one of my dreams to do and obviously growing up as a young boy everyone dreams of playing in a major tournament,
“To achieve it here is a dream come true.”
Despite qualification, Bale does not want Wales to rest on their laurels and has called on his side to carry on the hard work in the build-up to next summer’s tournament in France.
He said: “This shows what we are about. If we lose the ball we fight for our team-mates.
Wales players carry Chris Coleman aloft after securing qualification to Euro 2016.
Wales players carry Chris Coleman aloft after securing qualification to Euro 2016.
“We are like brothers on the pitch and that shows the togetherness in the squad. What can I say we’ve all fought hard druign qualification and this is what happens when you do that.
“It doesn’t stop here,” he added. “We’ve got to carry on and try to do the business over in France. Now we can put aside the relief, enjoy the occasion and get ready for France.
“It’s nice to be able to test ourselves in one of the biggest tournament in the world.”
-Sky Sports-
