Jess Fishlock has scored a record 46 goals for Wales, but is yet to find the net in the 2025 Nations League Nations League: Denmark v Wales Venue:Nature Energy Park, OdenseDate:Friday, 30 MayKick-off:18:15 BST Coverage:Live on BBC Two Wales, BBC iPlayer, BBC Radio Wales and Radio Cymru, the BBC Sport website and app, plus live text commentary Highlights:S4C and BBC iPlayer, 21:35 BST and later on demand. Jess Fishlock says Wales still believe they can stay in the top-tier of the Nations League. And the nation's record goalscorer admits the side will not focus fully on their Euro 2025 summer until 'the job is done'. Rhian Wilkinson's side retain ambitions of remaining at the top level in the Nations League, despite finding themselves bottom of League A's Group 4 with two games remaining. Defeat against Denmark in Odense on Friday would confirm relegation for the next edition of the competition â which is tied to qualification for the 2027 World Cup. With excitement building ahead of a first major tournament appearance, the game in Odense and Tuesday's clash with Italy in Swansea are Wales' final fixtures before Switzerland. But Fishlock, 38, said: "These games are all about the Nations League. We want to stay in League A so we are just focused on getting the wins here and then we'll look to the Euros when the job is done." Odds of climbing off the bottom spot are heavily against a side who are yet to pick up a win in this campaign. But Wales have impressed against the higher-ranked sides, holding leaders Sweden twice - including in last month's eye-catching 1-1 showing in Gothenburg. Fishlock missed that game with injury, but returned to the pitch for Seattle Reign in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) at the weekend, saying she is "feeling good". And, with the team faring far better than their last experience in League A where they suffered heavy defeats â including a 5-1 thrashing at the hands of the Danes â the 160-cap star playmaker said: "We are getting closer. Some of our performances have been ones to be proud of, but obviously we've not got the results we wanted. "For us now it's about putting in a performance and getting the result at the end of it; that's the focus for these games, leading us to that mentality for the summer." This video can not be played Wales desperate for a win before Euro 2025 - Roberts Wales will end their wait for major finals football when they take on the Netherlands in Lucerne on 5 July, with France and holders England the other teams in the group. But the Nations League carries its own importance. Staying in League A would guarantee Wales a play-off place for the World Cup in Brazil, with midfielder Alice Griffiths admitting: "As a younger player it would be special to do back-to-back qualifications. "People may think that's way off but we can do it and staying in League A makes the path easier for the Brazil World Cup." As well as the two draws with Sweden, Wales' defeats against Denmark and Italy have been by the odd goal and tight contests throughout. And Griffiths, 24, added: "We're fighting with everything we've got to stay here because we know how important it is for future qualification. The mentality has been the same throughout the campaign and that's to compete with these top nations, but also to beat them. "We're bottom which is not where we want to be, we know we need results to stay here and that's the aim."
Fit-again Fishlock says Wales have Nations League job to finish
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Wales Focus on Nations League Survival Ahead of Key Matches"
Bbc News
9.0
TruthLens AI Summary
Jess Fishlock, Wales' all-time leading scorer with 46 goals, is eager to help her team secure their place in the top tier of the Nations League as they approach crucial matches against Denmark and Italy. Despite their current position at the bottom of League A's Group 4 and having not yet won a game in this campaign, Fishlock and her teammates remain optimistic about their chances. They understand the significance of these fixtures, as a loss against Denmark could lead to relegation, which would affect their pathway to the 2027 World Cup. The players are determined to concentrate on the Nations League before shifting their focus to Euro 2025, which is set to be their first major tournament appearance. Fishlock emphasized that the immediate goal is to secure wins and maintain their League A status, highlighting the importance of their recent performances against stronger opponents like Sweden, where they managed two draws, including a commendable 1-1 result in Gothenburg.
Fishlock's return from injury has reinvigorated the squad, and she expressed confidence in their ability to improve upon their previous League A experience, which was marred by heavy defeats. The team is keenly aware that staying in League A would not only bolster their chances for future qualifications but also ensure a play-off spot for the World Cup in Brazil. Midfielder Alice Griffiths echoed this sentiment, noting the importance of back-to-back qualifications for younger players. The team has shown resilience, with narrow defeats against Denmark and Italy indicating their potential for growth. Griffiths stated, "We're bottom which is not where we want to be, we know we need results to stay here and that's the aim," reflecting the collective mindset of the squad as they prepare for these pivotal matches that could define their immediate future in international football.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article highlights Jess Fishlock's determination as she and the Welsh national team prepare for their crucial Nations League matches. Fishlock's experience and status as a record goalscorer for Wales frame the narrative of resilience amidst challenging circumstances. The focus on their ambitions, despite being at the bottom of their group, suggests a message of hope and determination.
Public Sentiment and Perception
The article aims to foster a sense of optimism among fans and the general public regarding Wales' chances in the Nations League. By emphasizing Fishlock's positive mindset and the team's previous strong performances against higher-ranked opponents, the article seeks to galvanize support and maintain enthusiasm for the upcoming matches. This narrative can help sustain community morale, especially in the context of an impending major tournament.
Transparency and Information
There is no indication of hidden agendas or information being withheld from the public within this specific report. The article provides a straightforward account of the challenges faced by the team, emphasizing both their current position and their aspirations. It appears to be a transparent coverage of the situation, focusing on the team's immediate goals.
Manipulative Elements
The manipulation potential of this article seems low. It does not employ sensationalism or misleading language; rather, it presents a balanced view of the team's struggles and aspirations. The tone is supportive, aiming to uplift rather than create undue pressure or unrealistic expectations.
Comparative Analysis
When compared to other sports news articles, this piece aligns with common themes of resilience and motivation in sports journalism. There is no evident hidden connection to other news stories, but it fits within a broader narrative of national pride and sporting ambition that resonates with similar reports from other teams and athletes.
Impact on Society
The article is likely to influence public sentiment positively, potentially boosting support for the Welsh national team. Such coverage can enhance community engagement, especially in anticipation of the Euros, while also emphasizing the importance of their performance in the Nations League for future World Cup qualification.
Target Audience
This article primarily appeals to sports enthusiasts, particularly fans of the Welsh national football team. It also targets local communities that take pride in their national representation in sports and may draw in those who follow women's football.
Market Implications
While this article may not have a direct impact on stock markets or commercial investment, it can enhance the visibility of women's sports, which may lead to increased sponsorship and investment in the future. Companies associated with the team or women's sports in general might see a positive correlation with fan engagement.
Geopolitical Context
In terms of global power dynamics, the article does not address significant geopolitical issues, but it does contribute to the narrative of national identity and pride, which can be a subtle influence on public sentiment in Wales.
Use of AI in Writing
There is no clear indication that AI was used in the writing of this article. It appears to be a traditional sports news piece, likely produced by human journalists. The structure and language suggest a standard journalistic approach rather than one influenced by AI-driven content generation.
In conclusion, this article is credible, presenting information relevant to the current state of the Welsh national football team. It serves to motivate and engage the audience without evident manipulation or bias. Overall, the reliability stems from its straightforward reporting of facts and the positive framing of the team's situation.