Wales’ Nations League top-tier status in doubt after 3-1 defeat in Norway

Wales’ hopes of staying in the top tier of the Nations League suffered a major blow after a 3-1 defeat by Norway in Oslo on Saturday. Craig Bellamy, who had vowed his side would go “all out” for victory, saw his team create the better chances in a goalless first half.

However, according to BBC Sport, Norway struck with their first shot on target after an hour, as Antonio Nusa fired in from the edge of the box. Substitute Andreas Schjelderup tapped in nine minutes later after good work from Nusa and Erling Haaland.

David Brooks came off the bench to chip in a reply, but Haaland sealed victory from the penalty spot after Connor Roberts fouled Schjelderup. The result lifts Norway above Wales into third in Group A4, meaning Bellamy’s men will finish bottom regardless of Tuesday’s home game against leaders Portugal.

Wales are now almost certain to face a relegation play-off against a League B side in March.