Wilkinson details Wales lightning strike drama ahead of Czech qualifier

Wales plane hit by lightning en route to Montenegro qualifier, forcing a diversion and a night in Italy.

Plane struck by lightning Rhian Wilkinson revealed Wales' team plane was struck by lightning while flying over Montenegro ahead of their 1-1 draw with the host nation last Friday. The charter flight faced severe electrical storms in the Balkans, prompting a diversion to Brindisi, Italy. Lightning flashes were visible from the aircraft, and the pilot later confirmed the plane had been hit. Wilkinson admitted she had never experienced such an incident before, calling it a frightening moment despite knowing they were not in danger. ## Chaotic travel delays Wales players and staff endured over three hours circling Montenegro before the decision to divert to Italy. After landing in Brindisi, they remained on the plane for hours hoping the weather would improve. Eventually, the Football Association of Wales arranged accommodation for 26 players, though Wilkinson and part of her coaching team spent the night in an airport waiting area. The team finally arrived in Montenegro on Thursday evening, just 23 hours before their match. ## Players reflect on the ordeal Wilkinson described the journey as a real horror trip, highlighting the physical toll of lost sleep and extreme stress. She noted that many people fear lightning strikes, and their experience only reinforced that fear. Despite the trauma, Wilkinson emphasized that everyone arrived in Montenegro safely. She also shared that she had deliberately made a bus late before Euro 2025 to prepare players for unexpected challenges, though she never imagined a lightning strike would be one of them. ## Czech Republic awaits in Cardiff Wales now face the Czech Republic in a crucial qualifier at Cardiff City Stadium on Tuesday, aiming to secure top spot in Group B1. Wilkinson stressed the importance of winning, calling the game massive and acknowledging the Czechs as equals in almost every aspect. Both teams are level on points with three wins and two draws from five matches, and a victory for either side would put them in pole position for the play-offs. A Czech win would allow them to finish top, while a draw would also benefit them due to a better goal difference. ## Key factors in the play-off race Finishing first in the group would give Wales a more favorable play-off route, avoiding a League A team in the semi-finals in October. Wilkinson expressed confidence in her fully fit squad, with only Hayley Ladd missing due to injury. Carrie Jones and Lily Woodham are set to reach 50 Wales caps in the upcoming match. The coach emphasized the need for momentum and player growth, stating that winning this game is vital for confidence and recognition of their progress.