大象传媒

Euro 2016: Wales secure a place in the semi-finals

  • Published
Gareth BaleImage source, Getty Images

Wales have reached the semi-finals of a major tournament for the first time ever after an incredible win over Belgium.

They beat Belgium, ranked second in the world, 3-1 in front of 20,000 fans in the European Championship quarter-final in Lille, France.

The Dragons haven't made the final stages of a major football competition since 1958.

They'll now go on to play Portugal for a place in the final.

Image source, EPA
Image caption,

Sam Vokes took his first goal in 12 games for Wales, since scoring against Iceland in March 2014

Image source, EPA
Image caption,

Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois of Belgium is beaten as Wales goes 3-1 up

Radja Nainggolan put Belgium ahead but a header from Wales captain Ashley Williams saw Wales equalise in the first half.

Hal Robson-Kanu, a striker without a club, then gave them the lead with a second stunning goal.

Wales sealed their win through a header from substitute Sam Vokes.

Image source, AP
Image caption,

Ashley Williams celebrates scoring an equalizer

Image source, PA
Image caption,

The Dragons have scored 10 goals at Euro 2016

But the team will have to play for a place in the final without Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey and Tottenham defender Ben Davies.

Their bookings against Belgium mean they'll now be suspended.

Image source, EPA
Image caption,

This Welsh team have become the first from their country to reach the semi-final of the European Championships

Wales manager Chris Coleman: "I said before we kicked the ball today, we are not here to enjoy it, we are here to compete."

"We defended like soldiers. All I can do is reiterate to the players never to forget what it took to get here. I know my team are good enough to perform against anybody."