Sports News of Wednesday, 3 June 2026

Source: ghanasoccernet.com

Craig Bellamy praises Ghana after Wales' late draw in Cardiff

Wales' National Team Manager Craig Bellamy during the international friendly match with Ghana Wales' National Team Manager Craig Bellamy during the international friendly match with Ghana

Wales head coach Craig Bellamy has praised Ghana's quality after his side battled back to secure a 1-1 draw in an international friendly at Cardiff City Stadium on Tuesday night.

The Black Stars appeared on course for victory after Caleb Yirenkyi scored his maiden international goal in the 66th minute, but Lewis Koumas struck deep into stoppage time to earn Wales a share of the spoils.

Speaking after the game, Bellamy was full of admiration for Ghana, acknowledging the strength of a team preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

"Ghana have good players and is getting ready for the World Cup," Bellamy said after the match.

The Wales manager noted that his side faced a talented and physically strong opponent, particularly praising Ghana's attacking threat throughout the contest.

After surviving early pressure from the hosts, Ghana grew into the game and looked the more dangerous side in the second half.

Ernest Nuamah was a constant menace on the wing, while Yirenkyi made an immediate impact off the bench with the opening goal.

Bellamy admitted that Ghana's quality made the contest a valuable test for his players ahead of future competitive fixtures.

"It was good, and I'm really, really happy with it," he said, referring to the challenge presented by the four-time African champions.

The former Wales captain also felt his side would have been unfortunate to lose despite Ghana's impressive display.

"I don't like losing games. I would have liked to have won the game, of course. Ghana are a good team, but we had chances, and we wouldn't have deserved to lose."

Facing a World Cup-bound Ghana side offered Bellamy the opportunity to measure his team's progress against elite international opposition.

He believes the match helped Wales identify areas for improvement and provided valuable experience for several players introduced during the game.

Although Wales salvaged a draw at the death, Bellamy's post-match comments reflected the respect he has for the Black Stars and their prospects ahead of the World Cup, where Ghana will face Panama, England and Croatia in Group L.