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As it happenedended

Gareth Bale's late goal not enough to prevent Denmark topping Nations League group

Kieran Jackson
Friday 16 November 2018 07:10 EST
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Aaron Ramsey chases down Christian Eriksen
Aaron Ramsey chases down Christian Eriksen (Action Images via Reuters)

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Wales missed out on promotion to the top tier of the Nations League as Denmark won a passionate Cardiff contest 2-1.

Nicolai Jorgensen gave Denmark a half-time lead and Martin Braithwaite's superb volley two minutes from time doubled their advantage to seemingly end Welsh hopes.

But Gareth Bale's instant response, sliding home his 31st international goal after rounding Denmark goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, had the visitors hanging on at the end.

PA

NETHERLANDS 1-0 FRANCE! (Wijnaldum)

Nathan Jacobs16 November 2018 20:30

What did I tell you? Wijnaldum has already scored against LLoris this season, and he even scored against Germany in the Netherlands last international break. 

This time it's an instinctive finish and praise for being in the right place at the right time. 

The ball deflects over the French defenders and falls to Babel who must surely score? 

But no, another shot is sent straight into the path of Lloris but his rebound falls to the Liverpool central midfielder who guides it into the empty portion of the net. 

Big celebrations and a much deserved first half goal with minutes to go. 

Nathan Jacobs16 November 2018 20:33

Wales 0-1 Denmark 

Netherlands 1-0 France 

Two goals to report on from the Nations League so far and both have come right on the cusp of half-time. 

Wales probably deserve to be behind as Denmark had a goal wrongly chalked off and have created plenty of chances but Wales have had a few of their own and know there's still plenty to play for. 

Meanwhile, the World Champions are yet to turn up, have not been able to find first gear and are being well beaten by the side that didn't even make it to the World Cup last summer. 

As it stands, the Dutch are moving one point behind France in their group with a game in hand while Denmark are staring at the prospect of promotion. 

Nathan Jacobs16 November 2018 20:35

28 mins: It's a bit scrappy at the Emirates with neither Brazil or Uruguay stamping their authority on the game. 

The Brazilians have been better, but they still need to do more to break La Celeste down. 

Nathan Jacobs16 November 2018 20:39

  ↵ I like this stat. He's been impressive so far this evening. 

Nathan Jacobs16 November 2018 20:44

Both Nations League matches are back underway in this second half. 

Meanwhile, Uruguay have a free-kick in a dangerous position. 

Nathan Jacobs16 November 2018 20:49

41 mins: Lucas Torreira's free-kick is above everyone though and sails out for a Brazil goal kick. 

Nathan Jacobs16 November 2018 20:49

47 mins: CHANCE! Wales 0-0 Denmark 

Wales start this second half really brightly and Bale breaks at the full-back, beating him with ease as if he wasn't there. 

He crosses the ball with the outside of his boot and it's met by David Brooks who just can't quite get the ball down. 

Bad news though as Chester is down and looks injured. To be replaced by youngster Ethan Ampadu. 

Nathan Jacobs16 November 2018 20:52

45 mins: CHANCE Brazil 0-0 Uruguay 

What a spot from Luis Suarez! 

The ball comes to him on the left edge of the area and he already knows his cross before he takes it, picking out Cavani at the right far post but his shot is well saved by Alisson for a corner which is dealt with. 

Last action of the half as both sides come in with the score 0-0. 

Nathan Jacobs16 November 2018 20:55

54 mins: Netherlands 1-0 France 

Meanwhile, we're almost an hour into the game in Holland and we have barely seen a sniff from France. 

Netherlands still the better side and in control. Free-kick in a dangerous area. 

Have a feeling Memphis might be thinking about this one. 

Nathan Jacobs16 November 2018 20:59

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