Wilkinson insists Wales ready despite airport delays ahead of Montenegro clash

Wales' head coach Rhian Wilkinson says her team will not let travel chaos impact their performance in a crucial Women's World Cup qualifier against Montenegro.

Wales faces travel nightmares Rhian Wilkinson's Wales squad experienced severe travel disruptions en route to Podgorica for Friday's Women's World Cup qualifier against Montenegro. The team was originally scheduled to arrive on Wednesday evening but was forced to reroute to Brindisi, Italy, due to severe electrical storms. The Football Association of Wales eventually secured accommodation for the players in the early hours of Thursday, though Wilkinson and several staff members spent the night waiting at the airport. Despite these challenges, Wilkinson emphasized that her players remain in high spirits ahead of the penultimate Group B1 match. ## Wilkinson praises staff resilience Wilkinson described the travel delays as difficult but noted that such situations are beyond control. She praised her backroom team for handling the situation exceptionally well, despite the inconvenience. Wilkinson also highlighted the dedication of her staff, who prioritized the players' needs by ensuring they received proper rest and food. The players, who stayed in southern Italy on Thursday, were largely unaware of the travel chaos, allowing them to focus on preparation. Wilkinson stated, "They're not aware of half of what's been happening and that's the point." ## No excuses for Wales Wilkinson confirmed that she spent the night at the airport due to a lack of available beds for the traveling party. She acknowledged her limited role on matchday minus one and two, emphasizing that her focus is on ensuring the players are fully prepared. Wilkinson said, "As a head coach, that is all I can do," adding that her staff, particularly the medical team, will work tirelessly to get the players ready. She stressed that there will be no excuses for Wales in the upcoming match. ## World Cup qualifier stakes The Montenegro game is critical for Wales as they compete with the Czech Republic for top spot in Group B1. The Czechs lead the group on goal difference and will face Albania on Friday before playing Wales at Cardiff City Stadium on June 9, 2026. Wales secured a 6-1 victory over Montenegro in Llanelli in March and will aim to repeat that success despite their difficult travel circumstances. If Wales and the Czech Republic finish level on points, head-to-head records will decide the group winner. ## Wilkinson focuses on winning Wilkinson dismissed concerns about goal difference as a deciding factor, stating that the team's focus is on winning their final two group games. She said, "That's not something we're chasing. What we've talked about is winning the [final two games of the] group and then we take care of our own fate." Wilkinson remains confident that her team will be ready for the challenge, regardless of the travel setbacks.