Craig Bellamy’s tenure as Wales manager began with a 0-0 draw against Turkey, who played with ten men for nearly half an hour in their Nations League opener on Friday. Despite the numerical advantage, Wales couldn’t secure a victory in the rain-soaked Cardiff encounter.
Bellamy, 45, a former Liverpool and Manchester City forward, took charge of Wales following the dismissal of Rob Page, who was sacked after failing to lead the team to Euro 2024 qualification. This marks Bellamy’s first role as a head coach after serving as an assistant to Vincent Kompany at both Burnley and Anderlecht.
In a match where Turkey’s Baris Alper Yilmaz was sent off in the 62nd minute for a second yellow card after stepping on Neco Williams’ foot, Wales struggled to capitalize. Yilmaz had earlier clashed with Joe Rodon, earning his first booking before halftime.
Bellamy, who previously credited former Wales manager Gary Speed as an inspiration for his managerial career, made nine changes to the starting lineup from the team that faced Poland in the Euro 2024 play-off loss in March. Among the notable selections were Aaron Ramsey, making his first appearance after nearly a year out due to injuries, and Sorba Thomas, back in the squad after an 18-month absence.
Turkey, under coach Vincenzo Montella, were missing captain Hakan Calhanoglu and made their first appearance since reaching the Euro 2024 quarter-finals. The two teams had recently drawn 1-1 in Cardiff during Euro 2024 qualifiers, and once again, Wales found it difficult to secure a win.
Wales created some promising chances, with Brennan Johnson’s clever backheel setting up Connor Roberts for an early opportunity. However, Ramsey’s header missed the target. The best opportunity of the first half came when Rodon, positioned at the far post, failed to convert a half-volley after a short corner.
Wales thought they had taken the lead in the 37th minute when Thomas chipped Turkey’s goalkeeper Mert Gunok following a through ball from Ramsey, but the goal was disallowed due to offside.
Turkey had few chances in the first half but showed some threat after the break when Yilmaz headed over the bar. After Yilmaz’s dismissal, Wales pushed for a breakthrough, with Harry Wilson coming close, narrowly missing the target.
Late in the game, Kieffer Moore suffered a head injury, requiring a headband, while Turkey nearly scored a late winner through Abdulkerim Bardakci, forcing Wales goalkeeper Danny Ward into a key save in stoppage time.
Despite the pressure, Wales couldn’t break the deadlock, leaving Bellamy still searching for his first win as manager.
