Wales extended their unbeaten run in the UEFA Nations League to six games as a narrow but well-fought 1-0 win was enough to see off Montenegro, for whom Harry Wilson's first-half penalty proved decisive. His contribution as a playmaker at least had helped Craig Bellamy's side leave with three precious points from Group B4, still within range of leaders Turkey.
Wilson should be a new regular for the rejuvenated Bellamy squad, as he went on to score his third goal in as many games for his country, a feat only managed by Gareth Bale back in 2016. The quiet penalty he bravely slotted past Montenegro goalkeeper Igor Nikic after being fouled by Vladimir Jovovic would be the decisive moment of the game. It was a confident and calm display from the Welshman, whose creativity and vision caused plight for Montenegro throughout the first half.
Bellamy's side with ferocity and attacking football brought seven changes to the team that drew 2-2 with Iceland just days ago, which proves there is enough depth within the squad. The first half exemplified the teamwork-based pressing game that Bellamy has bestowed upon his players since Wales should be in possession as much as they can and create some chances. Yet, the second half was just the opposite since Montenegro went close to leveling things several times.
Andrija Radulovic from Montenegro almost single-handedly changed the course of the game with one long-range effort that rattled the crossbar. The visitors pressed harder after the break as they searched for a way back into the match, while Wales could not maintain their stand in the first half of play. This has been one of the issues that Bellamy has highlighted in his tenure: the failure to maintain the vigor and energetic intensity seen in the first half of matches.
With Montenegro intensifying their attack, there was a need to call upon the experience of Joe Allen in the 75th minute. Returning for the national team after contemplating international retirement, Allen brought much-needed composure into midfield and looked to stabilize the team. It was thanks to his introduction that things were cooled down and the pressure from Montenegro subsided.
The last quarter was fast and nervy for Montenegro as they had to break a series of five straight losses. Increasingly aggressively, they tentatively pushed forward, but Steve Jovetic hit a free-kick wide and, in the dying embers, Nikola Krstovic only headed over. The Welsh side had a game that was not much simpler, with Wes Burns and Neco Williams dangerous, threatening to add a second late in the game.
If the performance was not the most inspiring since he took charge, then the win marks another step towards his tactical reconstruction. His all-action approach, based on high press and fast football, remains a work in progress but the right foundation for future success. A home match against Turkey and the double with Iceland could see Wales top group B4 under Bellamy.