Wales secured a dramatic last-minute equalizer against North Macedonia, ensuring they remain unbeaten under Craig Bellamy and keeping their World Cup qualification hopes alive. The match, played in Skopje, saw both goals arrive in stoppage time, leaving the Welsh manager in a state of shock.
North Macedonia entered the game in excellent form, having won their previous six matches without conceding a goal. Meanwhile, Wales had been undefeated in seven games under Bellamy. With such strong records, the match was expected to be a tightly contested affair. When Bojan Miovski netted a well-taken goal in the 91st minute, it appeared that Wales would suffer a narrow defeat despite their overall control of the game. However, David Brooks came off the bench to salvage a crucial point, sparking wild celebrations among the traveling fans.
Before the game, the atmosphere was somber as a minute’s silence was observed to honor the 59 victims of a tragic nightclub fire in North Macedonia. Bellamy, wearing a suit for the first time since taking charge, paid his respects during this moment of reflection.
Tactically, the home side opted for a defensive approach, switching to a back-five formation to counter Wales’ attacking threats. This allowed the visitors to dominate possession on the slick surface, though they struggled to create clear-cut chances. Sorba Thomas came close to breaking the deadlock when he connected with a cross from Dan James, but he was unable to direct his effort on target.
James proved to be a constant threat, frequently getting the better of North Macedonia’s former Leeds left wing-back Ezgjan Alioski. The winger’s presence forced the hosts into doubling up on him, limiting his space but also opening opportunities elsewhere. However, Wales lacked the finishing touch needed to capitalize on their territorial advantage.
Brennan Johnson’s sharp footwork created a promising chance for Nathan Broadhead, but the forward sent his shot swerving over the crossbar, adding to his manager’s visible frustration on the sidelines. At the other end, Wales’ defensive pairing of Joe Rodon and Chris Mepham stood firm, ensuring North Macedonia’s counterattacks were kept at bay.
The first significant test for Welsh goalkeeper Karl Darlow came in the second half when he reacted quickly to deny Darko Churlinov’s close-range effort. Moments later, Johnson’s goal-bound shot was dramatically cleared off the line, prompting the home side to shift to a more attacking setup by reverting to a back four.
This nearly paid off as Alioski came close with a shot that narrowly missed the target. The breakthrough finally arrived when a lapse in concentration from Joe Allen allowed Miovski to intercept a misplaced pass, leading to a clinical finish past Darlow.
With time running out, Wales refused to accept defeat. Kieffer Moore’s crucial header flicked the ball into Brooks’ path, and the substitute made no mistake with his finish, sending the away supporters into rapturous celebration. The late drama encapsulated the resilience and determination that Bellamy has instilled in his squad.
The hard-fought draw extends Wales’ unbeaten run and keeps them firmly in the race for World Cup qualification. Their ability to respond in adversity highlights their growing confidence under new leadership, and they will look to build on this momentum in the matches ahead.
