Wales vs Kazakhstan LIVE: Rabbi Matondo caps off impressive Welsh performance with first international goal | OneFootball

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Wales kicked off their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with a testing but morale-boosting victory over Kazakhstan in Cardiff.

Craig Bellamy’s men opened the scoring with less than 10 minutes on the clock as Dan James latched onto a loose ball in the penalty area after a short corner play. He whipped a shot at goal and a deflection took it past the goalkeeper to send the Red Dragons in front.

Despite dominating play and possession they conceded an equaliser as Connor Roberts gave away a penalty for handling the ball in the area. Kazakhstan’s captain Askhat Tagybergen scored the spot kick but Karl Darlow almost kept it out only for the ball to spin back over the line.

The fans in the stadium were tense but Ben Davies eased their concerns with a headed goal less than two minutes into the second half and Rabbi Matondo scored his first international goal in the 90th minute to put the result beyond doubt.

Craig Bellamy’s midas touch brings Wales victory in opening World Cup qualifier

Wales opened their World Cup campaign with a 3-1 victory over Kazakhstan.

Daniel James gave Wales an early advantage before a near-capacity 32,473 crowd at the Cardiff City Stadium but that was wiped out by Askhat Tagybergen’s penalty, awarded after Connor Roberts had handled.

Kazakhstan were threatening to throw a spanner in the works but skipper Ben Davies and Rabbi Matondo, with his first Wales goal in the final minute, ensured a winning start for Craig Bellamy’s side.

Mike Jones22 March 2025 22:12

Wales 2-1 Kazakhstan

81 mins: Less than 10 minutes to go.

Wales’ lead is comfortable for now. Kazakhstan haven’t been able to really challenge Karl Darlow from open play.

If Wales keep possession, as they have been doing, they should see this game out.

Mike Jones22 March 2025 21:26

Wales 2-1 Kazakhstan

78 mins: Oh hello!

Askhat Tagybergen floats a fine ball into the Wales penalty area where Abat Aimbetov is waiting.

He beats Joe Rodon in the air but his header loops up and is caught by Karl Darlow.

Mike Jones22 March 2025 21:25

Wales 2-1 Kazakhstan

75 mins: Wales want a third goal. There’s 15 minutes left to play in this match and Bellamy’s men are hunting.

One more and they’ll absolutely take the points but while they only have a one-goal advantage they are vulnerable.

Mike Jones22 March 2025 21:22

Wales 2-1 Kazakhstan

71 mins: Wales want another penalty after bursting down the right side.

James sends the ball to Harris who passes to Cullen.

He goes down under a tackle and the referee waves away the appeals again.

Mike Jones