At 3:45 AM Beijing Time on March 27th, Wales drew 0-0 with Poland in the European Qualifiers playoff final. However, James missed his penalty in the shootout, resulting in a 4-5 loss for Wales and elimination from the Euro finals. Welsh manager Robert Page spoke to the media after the match.
Page said, “James had immense courage to step up to take that penalty, and we rallied around him. Although he didn’t convert, what he brings to the team is incredible. I’m proud of this group. It was a brutal game, so close to progression. The result is bitterly disappointing, but we’ve come a long way. After this defeat, I believe we will emerge even stronger.”
“We’re in a transitional phase, with World Cup qualifiers following the Euros. There’s still much to do, and many more great moments ahead for us.”