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Williams: We can overcome loss of key duo

Western Mail

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November 18, 2025

NECO Williams is confident Wales can overcome the absence of suspended pair Ethan Ampadu and Jordan James for their vital World Cup qualifier against North Macedonia.

- PHIL BLANCHE Press Association

Williams: We can overcome loss of key duo

Ethan Ampadu will miss tonight's World Cup qualifier. (Circled, above) Neco Williams

Wales will be without midfielders Ampadu - who captained Craig Bellamy's side in their 1-0 victory over Liechtenstein on Saturday and James tonight after the pair picked up their second yellow cards of the competition in Vaduz.

The pair's absence leaves Bellamy with a major headache for a Cardiff City Stadium clash that Wales must win to improve their chances in the March playoffs.

"It's a huge miss. Two very important players for us," Williams said after James' first international goal was enough to beat opponents ranked 206 out of 210 teams in world football.

"This happens in football and, whoever is playing, is going to be ready.

"They're going to know the rules.

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