Wales defender Neco Williams remains disappointed after missing the 2026 World Cup through a penalty shootout loss to Bosnia-Herzegovina.
The upcoming friendlies against Ghana and Romania will take place at Cardiff City Stadium on Tuesday, 2 June, starting at 19:45 BST.
Neco Williams admits the disappointment of missing the 2026 World Cup still lingers, especially after Wales lost their play-off semi-final to Bosnia-Herzegovina in a penalty shootout. The 25-year-old Nottingham Forest defender revealed the defeat was painful after missing a crucial penalty himself. Despite the setback, he sees the upcoming friendlies as a step toward focusing on the home Euro 2028 campaign.
"We know what the fans are feeling because we are feeling the exactly the same, all the emotions of not going to America," Williams told Wales reporters.
Wales were four minutes from victory when Edin Dzeko equalized Dan James’ early goal, sending the match to penalties. Brennan Johnson of Crystal Palace missed his spot-kick before Williams’ attempt was saved. "When something like that happens, you don’t want to speak to anyone or be seen," Williams admitted. "But the group we have make you forget about it very quickly."
With the World Cup out of reach, Wales’ next major test comes in the Nations League against Portugal, Denmark, and Norway in the autumn. The focus shifts to Euro 2028, which Wales will co-host, providing home fixtures at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium.
Williams praised Bellamy’s influence since taking charge, noting improvements within the team despite the short timeframe. "Since he’s come in, he’s changed so much within the team," the defender said. "But, at the same time, it hasn’t been very long so the more time we have, the better we’re going to be. We’re enjoying it, we’ve got the Nations League to test ourselves against the best teams, and then we have the aim of the next tournament and the Euros."
Williams, a consistent performer for Nottingham Forest, has been linked with moves to several Premier League clubs, including Aston Villa, Everton, Manchester United, and Newcastle. Forest fought relegation and reached the Europa League semi-finals before losing to Aston Villa. The defender has three years left on his contract but has begun talks on a new deal. "I’ve got representatives to sort that kind of stuff out but I’m just enjoying my football," he said.
With two friendlies approaching, Williams is concentrating on the immediate task before considering his next steps. "We’ve got these two games and then I can enjoy a little break and that’s what I’m focused on at the minute," he explained. His priority remains contributing to Wales’ Euro 2028 ambitions.