"Wembley was the venue for England men's notable major trophy success, lifting the 1966 World Cup, but they have not been able to repeat that success since despite coming close at Euro 2020 and 2024. There is a significant gulf in quality between England fourth in the world rankings and runners-up at both previous European Championships and Wales, who are ranked 30th."
"The rivalry is not for me. I've grown up in England. I have full respect for how they support their athletes. Always have done. My football education has been in England so I'm beyond grateful for what England has given me. Massively grateful. I just see it as a top nation. They got to two finals in a row with the Euros. This is a team that when they go to tournaments they're looking to win it. I believe it's only a matter of time."
Craig Bellamy believes England are close to winning another major tournament and regards them as a top nation after reaching two consecutive European Championship finals. Wales will play a friendly at Wembley on 9 October before hosting Belgium in a World Cup qualifier in Cardiff the following Monday. Bellamy intentionally selected England to provide high-calibre opposition to test his players as Wales pursue qualification for the 2026 World Cup. England sit fourth in the world rankings while Wales are ranked 30th, creating a noticeable gap in quality. Bellamy rejects treating internationals as mere friendlies and intends to compete to win.
Read at www.bbc.com
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