Late equaliser by Nathan Broadhead helps Wales secure draw in Croatia on his international debut.

Wales got off to a good start in their first Euro 2024 qualifier without Gareth Bale, as debutant Nathan Broadhead scored a stoppage-time equaliser to secure a 1-1 draw against group favorites Croatia in Split.

Andrej Kramaric’s first-half strike looked like it would give Croatia a winning start, but Wales fought hard against the pressure to score the very last-minute goal. The result may have ended Wales’ nine-game winless run since the World Cup, but it’s an indication that Rob Page’s side is still a reputed football team even without their former captain’s talismanic presence.

The loss of record-breaker Gareth Bale, together with other Euro 2016 heroes, has left a gaping hole in Wales football. However, Aaron Ramsey took up the mantle of captain, leading every member of Page’s starting line-up onto the pitch. With six uncapped players on the bench and facing Armenia, Latvia and Turkey in Group D, the Croatians offered Wales the toughest examination.

The home side dominated the game from start to finish, controlling the ball with Real Madrid’s Luka Modric constantly testing Welsh goalkeeper, Danny Ward. However, Wales hung in there, and Broadhead’s stoppage-time strike secured an invaluable point.

Croatia had never lost a European Championship qualifier on home soil, making it an excellent result for Wales, proving they will not be pushovers in this tournament.

The game showed that Wales football remains strong, with exciting new talent coming up the ranks. Join Miguel Delaney’s Free Weekly Newsletter that brings you all the fresh football news, reviews, and analysis, delivering unmatched insights and exclusive expert opinions right into your inbox.

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