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Wales midfielder Harry Wilson says Gareth Bale drags the country through tough games, and is deserving of his spot at the World Cup.
As reported by BBC Sport, Wilson believes Bale deserves his time in the spotlight in Qatar for his displays for both club and country over the years. Bale came to Wales’ rescue in their 2022 World Cup opener against the USA on Monday night.
With Rob Page’s side losing 1-0, Bale won a penalty inside the final ten minutes of the match, before brushing himself off and slamming the spot-kick home.
Bale “drags” Wales through tough games
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With 41 goals, Bale is Wales’ all-time top goalscorer. He is well ahead of legendary striker Ian Rush in second, who netted 28 goals for the country.
Moreover, the forward made his 109th appearance for Wales on Monday night, moving level with Chris Gunter at the top of the all-time list.
He looks set to break that record in the coming weeks. Gunter is in the 26-man World Cup squad, but is seemingly only a backup to the likes of Connor Roberts and Neco Williams.
Fulham’s Wilson also played a key role against the USA, battling it out in midfield against the likes of Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie.
But it was Bale who rescued Wales on the night, and Wilson is forever grateful to the captain for his match-saving penalty.
“He drags us through tough games and got his goal,” said Wilson.
“He deserves to be on this stage for what he has done at club level over the years and also what he has done for our country as well.
“His performances over the years, I think he deserves to play at the World Cup on the world stage before he retires.”
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Wilson ready for Iran reaction
Elsewhere in the opening round of fixtures in Group B, England thumped Iran 6-2, in what was a strong showing from the Three Lions.
Next up for Wales at the World Cup is a meeting with Iran on Friday. Page’s men must get a positive result from the game in order to keep their World Cup dream alive.
But Wilson is expecting a strong reaction from the side that were beaten heavily on matchday one.
“It was a difficult result for them,” said Wilson. “England was always going to be difficult.
“They will be looking for a reaction and I think that is what we are going to see.
“It will be up to us to make sure we are on form to try and get the three points.”
Wales aiming for strong finish in Group B
Wales currently sit joint-second in Group B after one match, level with the USA on one point. England are top on three points, with Iran bottom on zero points.
It is the country’s first World Cup campaign in 64 years, and a victory over Iran will provide a huge confidence boost going into the final game against England.
Wilson will undoubtedly play a role in his country’s upcoming matches. He became Wales’ youngest-ever player when he made his debut in October 2013. Aged 16 years and 207 days, the midfielder beat a record previously held by Bale.
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