Wales’ Euro 2024 hopes were dashed in heartbreaking fashion as Poland edged them out 5-4 on penalties in Cardiff. After a tense 0-0 draw, Leeds winger Dan James was the only player to miss in the shootout, sending Poland to Germany this summer.
Despite the presence of Barcelona star Robert Lewandowski, Poland failed to register a single shot on target in 120 minutes. However, they found their range from the spot, with Lewandowski, Sebastian Szymanski, Przemyslaw Frankowski, Nicola Zalewski, and Krzysztof Piatek all converting confidently.
Wales, missing the talismanic Gareth Bale, created a good game but lacked the creative spark to break down a resolute Polish defense. Kieffer Moore provided a physical presence up front, but his header was spectacularly saved by Wojciech Szczesny.
The home side finished the 90 minutes in the ascendency but could not find the breakthrough. In extra time, Poland came closest to winning the game, but Jakub Piotrowski’s effort flew inches past the far post.
Wales saw out the final few seconds with 10 men after Chris Mepham was shown a second yellow card. But their first experience of penalties was a sour one, with James’ miss proving costly.
“It’s a cruel game,” said Wales boss Rob Page. “We’ll be bigger and stronger for having gone through this horrible experience. This group is going somewhere. There is a lot more to come, there are good times ahead.”
Poland coach Michal Probierz praised his team’s performance: “We created a good, emotional game. This is a very important day for us.”
