Ukraine fails to qualify for this year's World Cup; Gareth Bale stars for Wales
Ukraine couldn't qualify for this year's FIFA World Cup after a 1-0 defeat to Wales. Although the country is being ravaged by war, Ukrainians found an opportunity to dream, hope, and cheer
Wales' Gareth Bale (centre) celebrates with team-mates and staff after qualifying for the Qatar World Cup following victory in the FIFA World Cup 2022Ukraine's players were thrilled at the prospect of winning the playoffs final, another victory after Ukraine's thrilling 3-1 showdown against Scotland earlier in the week in the semi-finals of the playoffs that could have earned them a spot in the World Cup. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky had thanked the team for "two hours of happiness" after the semi-finals, but a Gareth Bale free-kick worked magic in the first half.
Ukraine improved their game during the second half, but it wasn't enough to get the ball past Wayne Hennessey, whose form impressed spectators. Yarmolenko almost scored a goal, but his shot flew just over the bar. Wales continued to hold their dominance until they won the match 1-0 and secured their spot in this winter's World Cup in Qatar. They will play alongside England, Iran, and the USA in Group B, with the tournament slated to commence on Monday, November 21.
After sending Wales to the World Cup, Gareth Bale talks about his retirement plan
Wales have secured their place in the World Cup, and it was Gareth Bale's free-kick that sent the team to the tournament for the first time in 64 years. After the much-deserved win, the former Real Madrid man has laughed off questions mentioning his immediate future. Bale initiated the decisive goal as his free-kick deflected off Andriy Yarmolenko and landed on the back of the net. In March, Bale scored twice as Wales defeated Austria 2-1 in their playoff semi-final.
The future of the Welsh international is now undecided, mainly because of his confirmed departure from Real Madrid after eight years at the club. When asked whether the World Cup will push his retirement further, Bale stated "for a little bit", implying that he will continue playing until at least the competition in November this year. The 32-year-old is speculated to be a target for many clubs across English football, including Welsh duo Cardiff City and Swansea City.
In addition, Manchester United are also eyeing him as they are looking to sign a new right-winger this summer. However, securing Wales' win and sending them to the World Cup is a more significant matter. He concerns himself with, at the moment, and likewise, he publicly reacted to his nation's narrow win. Bale has also termed Wales' success as the "greatest" win in the country's history now that they have reached their third major tournament in six years and their first World Cup since 1958.