Wales’ hopes of reaching the 2024 European Championship were ended in the cruellest fashion as Poland edged a penalty shoot-out following a goalless draw in Cardiff.
Leeds United’s Dan James was the unfortunate man to miss after nine successful attempts, Wojciech Szczesny guessing the right way to hand his side a 5-4 triumph in the winner-takes-all play-off clash.
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It was hard on Wales who held their own over an absorbing 120 minutes that was high on energy albeit low on clear goalscoring opportunities.
Ben Davies had a goal ruled out by VAR following a narrow offside call after the Tottenham defender had latched on to Kieffer Moore’s header across goal.
A great battle. Powodzenia for EURO 2024, @LaczyNasPilka 🤝 pic.twitter.com/6RlJc77hcI
— Wales 🏴 (@Cymru) March 26, 2024
Moore also came close in the second half with his effort brilliantly saved by the impressive Szczesny.
Wales had Chris Mepham sent off in the final minute of extra-time and their misfortunate continued as their first-ever penalty shoot-out ended in heartbreaking defeat.
Poland join Ukraine and Georgia in advancing to Euro 2024 tonight.
They will take their place in Group D alongside the Netherlands, Austria and France.
