Gareth Bale once again came to Wales’ rescue, as the captain’s late penalty salvaged a draw against the USA in his country’s first World Cup game in 64 years.
Wales were listless and outmatched in the first half, which was dominated by a vibrant USA team led by Tim Weah, who finished smartly after a surging run and pass by Christian Pulisic.
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The introduction of striker Kieffer Moore at halftime energized Wales, transforming a one-sided affair into a genuine contest as Ben Davies and Moore both came close to equalizing.
Then, with nine minutes remaining, the previously anonymous Bale was clattered in the box by Tim Ream before confidently whipping his penalty into the net, sending the travelling Welsh fans into a frenzy.
Wales finished the game strongly, buoyed by the fact that they had earned a point on their long-awaited World Cup return when they appeared to be heading for defeat and an early exit from the competition.
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Instead, Robert Page’s men will return to the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium on Friday to face Iran, who were thrashed 6-2 by England earlier in the day, knowing that a win would put them in the second round.
Wales’ group stage campaign concludes a week Tuesday against England, but they can focus on this comeback and what it means for their chances of extending their World Cup adventure.
