Wales captain Angharad James eyes historic World Cup as play-off campaign begins in Albania
Wales begin their Women's World Cup play-off semi-final against Albania, with captain Angharad James driven by the chance to reach a first World Cup.
Wales captain Angharad James has said the Women's World Cup is constantly on her mind as her side prepare to face Albania in the first leg of their play-off semi-final in Shkoder on Friday. The return leg will be played at Parc y Scarlets next Tuesday, with the winners meeting either Norway or Romania in a two-legged play-off final in December. Wales are aiming to reach a first Women's World Cup, to be held in Brazil next year.
James, a 32-year-old midfielder with Seattle Reign, stressed the significance of the opportunity, saying the tournament is always in the back of her mind and that she does extra work every day to prepare. She was a key part of the squad that ended Wales' wait for a major women's championship by qualifying for Euro 2025, and believes the current group has the strength and depth to go further.
Wales topped Group B4 during qualifying but, because teams in League B have no automatic route, they must navigate a demanding play-off path. They beat Albania twice in the group stage and, despite injuries reducing their squad, are expected to progress. A likely final against Norway would present a much tougher test, especially with the second leg away from home.
Norway are managed by Gemma Grainger, who stepped down as Wales boss in January 2024 after coming close to guiding the nation to the 2023 World Cup. Should Wales overcome Albania and Norway defeat Romania, Wilkinson's side would face Grainger's team. However, even winning that final may not guarantee a place in Brazil, as one of the eight European play-off winners – the lowest-ranked from the group stage – must enter inter-confederation play-offs in February.
James expressed frustration with the format, noting that a team could win a final and still miss out on the World Cup. She said the situation creates mixed emotions and hopes the pathway will change soon. Wales are determined to make history, but the route remains complex and challenging.
Image: FAW / BBC Sport
