Gareth Bale interrupted his own celebrations. Wales had qualified for a first World Cup in 64 years and their talisman was found in the corner that housed the Ukrainian fans, applauding them. “We just wanted to show our appreciation to them and what they are going through as a nation,” reflected his manager, Robert Page. “Their team were outstanding in two games and their supporters as well.”
Ukraine were dignified and disappointed in defeat. Oleksandr Zinchenko was in tears. His manager, Oleksandr Petrakov, wished Wales well in the World Cup.
