Ben Davies Speaks Out: Wales’ Euro 2024 Play-offs Penalty Heartache
Wales captain Ben Davies expressed his disappointment at missing out on a spot at Euro 2024 after a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat against Poland.
Despite a hard-fought 0-0 draw at the Cardiff City Stadium, Wales saw their hopes dashed when Dan James missed his penalty, allowing Poland to secure victory by converting all five of their spot-kicks.
Davies described the loss as “cruel,” acknowledging the effort the team had put in but lamenting the unfavorable result.
“It’s a difficult one to take,” Davies said in an interview with S4C. “We put everything into the game but in the end it wasn’t to be. Poland are a good team, and there wasn’t much between us, but in the end, penalties… it’s cruel.”
The Wales skipper praised the character shown by the players, highlighting their love for representing Wales on the international stage.
Wales manager Rob Page shared Davies’ sentiments, expressing his devastation at the defeat and rallying around Dan James, who had the courage to step up and take a penalty despite the outcome.
“It’s a cruel game,” Page commented. “We rallied around Daniel James; he had the bravery to take that penalty. I am so proud of that group.”
Reflecting on the match, Page believed Wales had been the better side, limiting Poland’s chances and demonstrating their superiority throughout the game.
Despite the disappointment, Page remained optimistic about the future of the Welsh squad, emphasizing the progress they had made and the hunger within the team for success.
Former Wales players and pundits, including Joe Allen, Helen Ward, and Nathan Blake, offered words of support and encouragement for the team, acknowledging the efforts of individual players like Dan James and expressing confidence in the team’s future prospects.
