Heartbreak for Cymru as poland

Our boys bow out on penalties

Cymru’s aspirations for Euro 2024 met a heartbreaking conclusion as they succumbed to a penalty shootout loss against Poland in their play-off final at Cardiff City Stadium.

In a match characterised by tense stalemate, neither team managed to break the deadlock during the nerve-wracking 90 minutes. Ben Davies’ disallowed goal for offside just before halftime added to the frustration.

Extra time brought little relief as Jakub Piotrowski’s near miss epitomised the slim margins of the game. Chris Mepham’s late expulsion only added to the tension, leading the contest to penalties.

Despite a valiant effort and flawless penalties until the crucial moment, Daniel James’ miss sealed Cymru’s fate, shattering their dreams of advancing to the summer’s final in a cruel twist of fate.

The defeat not only dashes Cymru’s hopes of a fourth major finals appearance in five attempts but also raises questions about the future of manager Rob Page. This loss follows a disappointing qualifying campaign, reigniting concerns lingering from a turbulent international camp last summer.

Though there was optimism heading into the match, reminiscent of their semi-final victory over Finland, nerves gripped the capital throughout the day, with no respite from the tense atmosphere.

Both teams struggled to create clear opportunities, with chances at a premium. Despite occasional sparks of promise, Cymru couldn’t break Poland’s dominance, extending their winless streak in this fixture.

While Cymru seemed to gain momentum towards the end of regular time, their efforts were thwarted by an outstanding save from Wojciech Szczesny. The subsequent extra time failed to produce a breakthrough, culminating in Mepham’s expulsion and the dreaded penalty shootout.

Despite efforts to rally, Cymru fell short in the cruelest manner possible, leaving fans disheartened and dreams shattered.

The game went to penalties after it remained 0-0 after 90 minutes and extra-time at the Cardiff City Stadium.

Poland won the penalty shoot-out 5-4, goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny - a former Arsenal player - saving the crucial spot-kick from Leeds winger Daniel James.

Poland converted five perfect penalties with Robert Lewandowski, Sebastian Szymanski, Przemyslaw Frankowski, Nicola Zalewski and Krzysztof Piatek all successful against Danny Ward.

It means Poland are through to their fifth successive European tournament.