Boss Bellamy toasts a night of near perfection

WALES boss Craig Bellamy claims his side’s demolition of World Cup qualifying rivals North Macedonia was as close to perfection as he could have wished, and says securing home advantage in the upcoming playoffs could be pivotal bid to reach next summer's finals.

- By Tom Coleman and Phil Blanche

Wales Head Coach Craig Bellamy applauds the fans at the final whistle after his side's comprehensive win over North Macedonia at Cardiff City Stadium on Tuesday.

(Ian Cook - CameraSport via Getty Images)

A Harry Wilson hat-trick, as well as goals from David Brooks, Brennan Johnson, Daniel James and Nathan Broadhead sealed a sensational 7-1 win at the Cardiff City Stadium.

The win cemented Wales’ place as runners-up behind Belgium.

As well as swerving a semifinal with some of the big hitters in the hat, Wales have also secured a tie at the Cardiff City Stadium, which Bellamy says could be crucial to their chances of making it to North America.

"It’s really important," he said when asked about the significance of coming back to Cardiff in March. "We've seen it tonight. When we play home, it’s very important for us.

"Tonight was as close to perfect that I could have asked for. I don’t believe in perfect. I’m not a perfect person. I've never met anyone who is.