ECQ: Wales miss out on a place at Euro 2024

 Wales 0 - 0 Poland

Poland won 5-4 on penalties

Wales lost to Poland in a penalty shootout during their Euro 2024 play-off final in Cardiff, ending their hopes of qualification for the summer's tournament in Germany.

In the first shootout for Wales' men in a competitive match, Daniel James had his kick saved by Wojciech Szczesny. Poland converted all five.

It was an awful way for Robert Page and his players to suffer defeat, especially against a Poland side that failed to register a single shot on target during the entire 120 minutes. 

Robert Lewandowski's side might not have been that convincing, but they will be able to start looking forward to joining France, Netherlands and Austria in their group at this summer's Euros in Germany.

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This will hurt Wales

The shocked look on all of the players' faces. and the sudden hush that fell over the home crowd said it all.

It'll be a while before everyone can truly come to terms with the crushing blow of this loss. Page, his team, and the Football Association of Wales officials will need time to figure out what this means for the team's future.

After getting used to making it to big tournaments, this defeat stings just as much as some of the most heartbreaking moments in Welsh football history.

This pain isn't going away anytime soon.

Highlights. Watch some of the key moments of the match in the video below. 

Plans for summer have changed. Let's explore some of the best reactions.

Liam, a Welsh football from Cardiff, said: "We've never been in the situation of facing penalties before. With a young team in transition, I didn't have much confidence in our chances. Neither side took control of the game, in my opinion. I had intended to attend every match in Germany, this defeat has ruined those summer plans."

Billy from Wrexham added: "I thought the team played very, very well. It was a tense game to watch and the quality of this Poland team added to this occasion. I am gutted that we couldn't see it out."

Rebecca from Swansea was proud of the performance. She told us: "I was convinced that a goal was coming. I could sense a goal. Sadly, it wasn't to be. However, thinking more positively, seeing what Rob Page has done with the team these past two games has made me think we are on the verge of developing a really strong side."

James Thomas is from Rhyl, he was also full of pride for his country. He said: "I really hope that Rob Page doesn't lose his job, as some have suggested. Based on the last two games and the fact that Wales came very close to winning with a team undergoing changes, he seems to be doing a lot of things right and deserves a lot of credit."

Jonathan gave his perspective on the manager. He said: "Do we stick with Page or does the FAW bring a new manager in to work with many of the excellent young players? It could be an interesting time for us now."