Wales beat Norway 2-1 in Cardiff to secure their first Nations League A victory, recovering from Oscar Bobb’s early goal before Neco Williams completed the comeback shortly after half-time.
The result was a strong response from Craig Bellamy’s side after their disappointing defeat by Denmark. Wales began slowly but grew into the contest, with Sorba Thomas posing a constant threat from the left.
Norway took the lead in the 11th minute when Bobb finished after a precise assist from Martin Odegaard. Their advantage was tested soon afterwards when Julian Ryerson was forced off with an injury.
Thomas continued to trouble Norway’s replacement, Holmgren Pedersen, and eventually made the decisive contribution to Wales’ equaliser. His cross was met by Daniel James, who slid in to score seven minutes before the interval.
Erling Haaland, making his first appearance since Manchester City were found guilty of all charges relating to serious breaches of Premier League financial rules by an independent commission, struggled to make an impact for the visitors.
Wales took control in chaotic circumstances immediately after the restart. James broke through just 15 seconds into the second half and was pulled down by Torbjorn Heggem, who was shown a red card.
Williams then struck the resulting free-kick low to the goalkeeper’s right, putting Wales ahead and turning the match around.
The hosts had opportunities to make the game safe, but Norway remained capable of finding an equaliser. Haaland headed over from close range before later directing another header straight at Wales goalkeeper Danny Ward.
Thomas also missed the target as he searched for a goal of his own, but Wales held on to claim three points and end their winless start to the Nations League campaign.
