Former Wales players see signs of progress after Norway win

Wales came from behind to win at Cardiff City Stadium, ending a six-match winless run that began with March’s World Cup play-off defeat by Bosnia-Herzegovina. BBC Sport reported that it was Wales’s first victory in nine matches in the top tier of the Nations League, and their first over a higher-ranked side since Bellamy became head coach in July 2024. [1]

Speaking after the match, Bellamy said he had “felt the stick” since the Bosnia-Herzegovina defeat and described the past few months as difficult. He said his wife and children had seen negativity directed at him. He urged people to be kinder, while stressing that he was not saying coaches should be free from criticism. [1]

BBC Sport also reported that some fans criticised Bellamy after he held talks in June over a possible move to Burnley. [1]

Bellamy said he was happy for Wales and did not want to spoil the mood after the win. He also said he had turned down “big money” to carry on coaching the national side. [1]

Update

Former Wales players Joe Ledley and Robert Earnshaw see encouraging signs in the 2–1 win over Norway, though neither suggested that one result settles the question of Wales’s progress under Craig Bellamy. Ledley told BBC Sport Wales that the performance felt more like the side’s early displays under Bellamy. Earnshaw called it a “statement win” and said he hoped it would prove a turning point. [2]

Bellamy said he had held an “identity meeting” with his players before the match. He has won nine of his 23 games since taking charge in July 2024. [2]