Rhian Wilkinson: No excuses for Wales despite travel disruption

Wales head coach Rhian Wilkinson has insisted that her squad will not use their difficult journey to Montenegro as an excuse for their performance in Friday's World Cup qualifier. Due to electrical storms, the team's travel plans were severely disrupted, resulting in an arrival in Podgorica less than 23 hours before kick-off at the Gradski Stadion.

While the players were able to rest at temporary accommodation in southern Italy, Wilkinson and many staff members were forced to spend the night in an airport waiting area. The head coach praised the support staff for prioritising the players' needs, ensuring they remained shielded from the logistical challenges throughout the trip.

We don't try to shield them from challenge, but equally we try to make sure their performances aren't affected and that's what we've done here. There's no excuses. We'll be ready for the game. Rhian Wilkinson

The fixture is vital for Wales as they remain locked in a tight battle with the Czech Republic for the top spot in Group B1. Finishing first is essential to securing a more favorable path in the upcoming World Cup qualifying play-offs. Despite the non-ideal preparation, Wales are expected to replicate their dominant 6-1 victory over Montenegro from March.

Wilkinson noted that the team is focused solely on winning their remaining group matches rather than worrying about goal difference or head-to-head tie-breakers against the Czechs. The squad is determined to control their own fate as they head into the final stages of the qualification campaign.