Dramatic Showdown: Armenia Prevails 4-2 as Wales Fights Against the Odds in Euro 2024 Qualifier

Wales' chances of securing a spot in Euro 2024 were severely damaged following a 4-2 defeat to Armenia in a chaotic match held in Cardiff, where Kieffer Moore was shown a red card. A victory would have propelled Wales to the top of Group D, having accumulated four points from their initial two games. However, complacency crept in, leading to Armenia's spirited comeback with goals from Lucas Zelarayán and the highly promising 19-year-old Grant-Leon Mamedova just before halftime.

Wales failed to mount a strong offensive after half-time, allowing Mamedova to capitalize on their sloppy defending and score a fantastic third goal. Although Harry Wilson's goal gave hope for a comeback, Zelarayán quickly responded with his second goal, dampening the atmosphere in Cardiff. As the clock ticked down, Wales faced an even greater challenge when Moore received a straight red card for an alleged kick on Armenia goalkeeper Ognjen Cancarevic. The goalkeeper and his teammates celebrated as if they had just secured the victory.

Wales finds itself in a challenging position to secure a top two finish in Group D, with David Brooks making a positive return to the squad after his battle with stage-two Hodgkin lymphoma in October 2021.

How Wales were humiliated in Cardiff...

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Wales' Ethan Ampadu and Aaron Ramsey look dejected after Armenia went 2-1 up

Wales started the game with strong pressure, utilizing Connor Roberts' long throw-ins to create difficulties for the opponent. However, Moore missed out on a couple of opportunities to score with his headers.

In the 10th minute, the breakthrough occurred as Brennan Johnson delivered a delightful cross, allowing James to calmly finish the ball into the net.

Armenia came alive after the goal when Eduard Spertsyan narrowly missed a header. However, Wales failed to pay attention to this warning. Shortly after, Tiknizyan once again provided a cross from the left, allowing Zelarayan to execute a beautiful volley past the goalkeeper.

The situation deteriorated for Wales when Joe Rodon lost the ball in his own half. Spertsyan delivered a perfect pass that sailed over Chris Mepham, finding the unmarked Ranos, who headed the ball into the net.

Wales grew increasingly frustrated as James drove wide after the restart. Their troubles deepened as Ranos skillfully deceived Rodon and unleashed an unstoppable shot that beat Ward. However, Wales found a glimmer of hope 18 minutes before the end when Moore headed the ball down at the far post, allowing Wilson to tap it home from close range.

Armenia retaliated once more as Ranos struck the post, followed by Zelarayan's powerful shot finding the back of the net for his second goal, capitalizing on Joe Morrell's mistake in possession. Moore's unfortunate red card during a clash with Chancharevich means he will be absent for Monday's match in Turkey. This setback adds a heightened importance to the upcoming game for Wales.

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What's next?

Armenia host Latvia on Monday with kick-off at 5pm.