A Harry Wilson hat-trick propelled Wales to a dominant 7-1 victory over North Macedonia, securing a home advantage for their World Cup play-off semi-final. In a must-win match held in Cardiff, Wales showcased a potent attacking force, with Wilson leading the charge as captain in the absence of Ben Davies and Ethan Ampadu.

Wales's convincing win, their largest in 47 years, ensured they finished second in Group J, guaranteeing a home semi-final in the World Cup play-offs. Although Wales had already secured a play-off berth by winning their Nations League group, the victory against North Macedonia was crucial to avoid a potentially tougher play-off against a higher-ranked opponent.

The match began with Wales displaying their attacking intent. David Brooks's early effort set the tone, and Wales soon earned a penalty when Brooks was fouled in the box. Wilson confidently converted the penalty in the 19th minute, despite North Macedonia's goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski's attempts to put him off. Moments later, Brooks extended Wales's lead, capitalizing on Brennan Johnson's assist to make it 2-0.

However, North Macedonia responded swiftly, with Bojan Miovski scoring after a defensive lapse and an unfortunate slip by Welsh goalkeeper Karl Darlow. Despite the setback, Wales maintained their composure and quickly restored their two-goal advantage. Brennan Johnson scored a stunning long-range curler to make it 3-1.

The second half saw Wales continue their dominance. Daniel James added a fourth goal after a clever backheel from Wilson. Wilson then scored a spectacular free-kick to extend the lead to 5-1 before completing his hat-trick with another penalty. Substitute Nathan Broadhead capped off the scoring with a late header, sealing a 7-1 victory for Wales.

Craig Bellamy, the Wales manager, made five changes to the starting lineup from their previous match against Liechtenstein, preparing his side for the crucial encounter. The absence of key players like Davies, Ampadu, Kieffer Moore and Jordan James due to injuries and suspension could have been costly, but Bellamy's tactical decisions and the quality of his available players ensured a comfortable victory.

The emphatic win and securing a home play-off semi-final has boosted Wales's chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The draw for the play-off semi-finals will take place this Thursday, with Wales set to face either Kosovo, the Republic of Ireland, Bosnia-Herzegovina, or Albania in a one-legged home tie in March.