Craig Bellamy’s reputation as a composed leader did not last long. Just days earlier, Wales captain Ben Davies had described him as “Mr Calm” following his measured half-time speech against Kazakhstan.
For those who remember Bellamy as a fiery competitor during his playing career – once described by Sir Bobby Robson as someone who could argue alone in an empty room – this characterization seemed almost unrecognizable.
However, the Bellamy of today is not the same man who once thrived on intensity. Now 45 and leading his national team, he has undergone a transformation, emphasizing control and analysis. His players have spoken about his structured team talks and meticulous tactical breakdowns, and his interviews have been composed and insightful.
That was until Tuesday night in Skopje, where a last-gasp goal saw Wales snatch a dramatic draw against North Macedonia. In that instant, the controlled demeanor vanished, replaced by unrestrained jubilation as he leapt in celebration when David Brooks’ effort trickled over the line.
Despite Wales dictating play for the majority of the match, it appeared they would suffer an agonizing loss when Joe Allen’s misplaced backpass allowed Bojan Miovski to pounce and fire the hosts ahead late in the game. The North Macedonian crowd erupted as their team seemed poised for victory.
However, Wales threw caution to the wind in added time. Ditching their usual methodical approach, they opted for a direct route – Kieffer Moore rising to meet a long ball, knocking it into the path of Brooks, who bundled it home from close range.
While the dramatic finale provided a moment of unfiltered joy, Bellamy’s immediate reaction reflected a different emotion. “My first feeling? Probably shock,” he admitted. “Calm? Not in the slightest. Even now, I’m not. Losing would have been tough to accept, but you have to take results as they come.”
He emphasized the learning experience the game provided: “As much as I hope my players take lessons from me, I also believe as a coach, you learn from your squad. Tonight gave me plenty, particularly in terms of character.”
Although salvaging a draw in such dramatic fashion could be seen as a positive, Bellamy’s frustration was evident. His team had controlled the game from start to finish, yet they lacked the cutting edge to convert possession into a victory.
“Watching the equalizer unfold was incredible, but at the same time, taking only a point leaves me disappointed because of the performance,” he admitted. “We were in control, but football can be cruel.”
Wales remains unbeaten under Bellamy, having won four and drawn four of his eight matches in charge. Their Nations League promotion and promising start to World Cup qualifying are evidence of progress, yet the manager remains unsatisfied.
Currently second in Group J, level on points with North Macedonia but trailing on goal difference, Wales faces bigger tests ahead, particularly against top-seeded Belgium. Reflecting on the result, Bellamy acknowledged its potential significance but knew his side had let an opportunity slip.
“This could turn out to be an important point – but time will tell,” he said. “In international football, chances can be scarce, and we had our moments today. Looking back, we really needed three points.”
