Laura Hughes targets World Cup glory with Wales in 2026 qualifiers

Laura Hughes is focused on helping Wales secure a World Cup spot after recent high-pressure matches with Melbourne City.

Hughes enjoys big-game momentum The journey began with Australia's A-League grand final, followed by the AFC Women's Champions League semi-final, and now Wales faces two crucial World Cup qualifiers. Laura Hughes, a former Australia international who now plays for Wales, continues to thrive in high-stakes matches. Hughes played a key role off the bench as Melbourne City clinched Australia's domestic double with a victory over Wellington Phoenix just over two weeks ago. Four days later, she started in the Champions League defeat to Tokyo Verdy Beleza in South Korea, ending a strong season for the club. ## Wales qualifiers loom large With Wales set to face Montenegro on Friday and the Czech Republic in Cardiff next Tuesday, Hughes feels ready to contribute. 'I think especially with the [Melbourne City] games being high-pressure knockout games, it's prepared me really well for what's coming with Wales,' Hughes explained. 'To play at a World Cup, I've dreamed about since I was a kid so it would be really cool.' A World Cup berth remains uncertain, with Wales needing strong results in these two games to top Group B1 and secure a favorable playoff path later this year. ## Tactical focus on Group B1 As it stands, Wales sits behind the Czechs—who host Albania on Friday—on goal difference. The group winners will be determined in Cardiff, but Wales aims for a dominant win over Montenegro to boost their chances. 'I think the game against Montenegro will be challenging and will set us up really well for the next game,' Hughes noted. Wales has been preparing in training and meetings, anticipating a tough and aggressive opponent. 'We've got to be prepared for everything. We're just chasing the results and hopefully they come.' ## Hughes' Welsh connection grows Hughes is with the Wales squad for only the second time after switching allegiance to her mother's homeland last year. The 24-year-old made her Wales debut in December's 3-2 friendly win over Switzerland, having missed earlier qualifiers due to a knee injury. Now fit, she looks to make her competitive debut for Wales. Hughes spent time in Porthcawl before the Montenegro trip, reconnecting with family, including her grandfather, aunt, and two cousins. ## Personal journey to Wales Born and raised in Canberra, Hughes says committing to Wales felt natural after head coach Rhian Wilkinson gave her the opportunity. 'I think my mum shed a tear when I made my debut,' she recalled. Hughes spent many summers in Wales growing up, with family visits between both countries. 'I feel very connected to Porthcawl and Wales. I feel very Welsh.'