The vivid memory of the Euro 2016 fairytale contrasts with testing circumstances for Wales as they prepare for their second international tournament in five years.
After manager Ryan Giggs was charged with assault, the Welsh FA swiftly appointed Robert Page for this summer’s tournament.
And the 46-year-old has overseen an encouraging start in relief of Giggs, winning four out of six with their only loss coming against the No 1 side in the world Belgium.
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Page has had a calming effect on his side and admits there is an element of relief at the “clarity” surrounding his role ahead of the first game on 12 June.
“They’re difficult circumstances. There’s no hiding away from that but it is what it is,” said Page. “It’s been difficult but now there’s clarity with the situation – for players, supporters, the FAW. Over the previous two camps, the boys have reacted in a positive way and they’ve not been affected by it whatsoever. It’s continuity that the players want.”
Wales have already shown they are trending in the right direction after edging out Slovakia and Hungary to finish three points behind Croatia in qualification.
And although there is no hiding away from the difficulty in escaping the group, the recent breakout form of talisman Gareth Bale provides genuine optimism. The Tottenham forward could be entering his final international tournament at the peak of his powers, with match-winning displays against Southampton and Sheffield United ensuring the Dragons still possess that rare luxury of a genuine superstar.
His minor role under Jose Mourinho also allows the 31-year-old to enter the tournament fresh, though any success for Wales will require the next generation of talent to continue developing.
Dan James, Ethan Ampadu, Harry Wilson, Neco Williams and Joe Roden provide an exciting core for the present and future, while Page will also be able to lean on a wealth of experience from Bale, Aaron Ramsey, Joe Allen, Ben Davies and Chris Gunter.
Merely qualifying for the knock-out stages would be deemed a success, with Turkey and Switzerland favoured to join co-hosts and contenders Italy in the knock-out stages with the automatic runner-up spot or as one of the best third-place finishers.
Prediction
Robert Page has dealt with the difficult circumstances admirably, but this testing group will be tough to overcome, though I still expect Wales to push all three group opponents, even if ultimately the Welsh finish bottom of the group.
