World Cup Qualifying: Wales have ‘clicked’ under Bellamy – Wilson

Wales had not hit the heights in this World Cup group as they head done in Bellamy’s debut Nations League campaign that had excited Wales fans.

But this win – needed to guarantee a home semi-final in the play-off and a potentially more favourable route to a second successive World Cup – reignited belief ahead of the next phase of qualification.

“We’ve put ourselves in a good situation for the play-offs and all the focus and preparation will be on that March camp,” said Nottingham Forest full-back Neco Williams, with Wales discovering their semi-final opponents on Thursday. “That’s the performance we want to put in every time we play. If we can keep performing like that then hopefully we can get to that World Cup.”

Williams was among those full of praise for Wilson, who also provided an assist in Wales’ biggest win since a 6-0 friendly win over China in 2018.

Wilson, 28, became the first player since Gareth Bale in 2021 to score a hat-trick for Wales – and the only other player to do so in the last 20 years – with his treble against North Macedonia.

It took his tally to 17, overtaking Mark Hughes and the process and leaving him eighth on the all-time list – just behind manager Bellamy on 19.

But Wilson added: “It was an amazing night for me, but tonight was about the team.

“We wanted to show how good a team we are.

“The team were disappointed after the Liechtenstein game – even though we dominated the game, it would have been nice to score a few more goals so we were determined to go out there tonight and show people that we can not only keep possession, but we can also punish teams as well.

“For me personally it was amazing to get the hat-trick, and I’m delighted for the other boys to get their goals as well.”