Wales Secures a Comfortable Victory Over Kazakhstan in Dominant Qualifying Display in Cardiff

Ben Davies’ header in the second half propelled Wales to extend their unbeaten streak to seven internationals, as they began their FIFA World Cup qualifying (WCQ) campaign with a 3-1 win over Kazakhstan— a result that arguably reflects a more comfortable performance than the score suggests.

The hosts wasted no time in establishing dominance, breaking the deadlock in just nine minutes when Daniel James netted his eighth international goal with a well-placed shot from inside the area that deflected off a defender and slipped through the goalkeeper’s legs.

However, that advantage was quickly cancelled out shortly after the 30-minute mark. A contentious penalty was awarded against Connor Roberts, who turned his back to a cross that struck his trailing arm.

Askhat Tagybergen successfully converted the penalty, although Karl Darlow managed to get a foot on the ball before it trickled in.

The Dragons were spurred by a feeling of injustice, a sentiment only amplified when Maksim Samorodov received a mere yellow card for a reckless late tackle on Roberts.

David Brooks then fired off-target from a free-kick, while Craig Bellamy’s side enjoyed the majority of possession. Nevertheless, they struggled to find that decisive final pass and were nearly punished when Islam Chesnokov saw his effort saved at the opposite end.

Wales’ frustrations, however, dissipated just 76 seconds into the second half, when Sorba Thomas delivered a fierce corner to the back post, which captain Davies headed home.

This time, Kazakhstan had no response. In fact, Jordan James came close to making it 3-1 with a low shot from near the penalty spot, expertly parried away by Aleksandr Zarutskiy, who also made an impressive save from a Neco Williams free-kick.

A string of opportunities followed, with Josh Sheehan and Liam Cullen also close to adding to the scoreline. But as the chance for a fourth goal slipped away, nerves began to creep in.

Abat Aymbetov and Chesnokov both had chances for the Hawks, who were keen to end their five-match losing streak in competitive fixtures.

However, any hopes of a comeback were dashed when Rabbi Matondo sealed the victory with his first international goal in injury time, following a well-executed run to finish off Thomas’ cross.

Consequently, Kazakhstan’s 12-year search for a win in World Cup qualifying continues, while Bellamy maintains his unbeaten record since taking the reins of the Welsh side last summer.