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The Welsh side earned a hard-fought 1-0 victory against international minnows Liechtenstein to sustain their aspirations of World Cup qualifying.

The young midfielder claimed his first international strike for Wales from close range after Liechtenstein’s mix of professionals, amateurs and part-timers had defended for more than 60 minutes. The scorer ran off in delight with his obvious relief echoed by the 3,000 Welsh fans occupying most sections of the Rheinpark Stadion in Vaduz.

Moments later, though, James was booked and another booking for his midfield partner means both midfielders are suspended for the upcoming decisive game with North Macedonia through accumulated bookings.

The Wales' ground contest is a game the Welsh team need to win to leapfrog their rivals and guarantee a better draw in the qualifying playoffs in next spring.

Craig Bellamy had an unfamiliar view from the dugout, the head coach undertaking a touchline ban after being shown a second yellow card in the competition last month.

Bellamy’s number two Piet Cremers took his place in the technical area and several key players – James, Ampadu, Joe Rodon, Neco Williams – were at risk of suspension from being absent for the last group game. Both James and Ampadu were booked in moments that could really hurt their team.

The home side, ranked among the lowest-ranked in international football, had failed to score in their winless run and allowed 23 goals at an rate of around four per match.

The visitors as expected controlled the ball as their hosts employed a low defensive block and packed their defence.

Their opponent's target was rarely tested until Broadhead high press forced an error and James saw his effort from the edge of the box saved by Büchel.

A similar move crafted an opportunity, Jordan locating Broadhead this time with a accurate delivery behind the defence.

Broadhead’s excellent control evaded the keeper but the Wrexham striker failed to finish from a tight angle.

The Welsh team believed they'd scored the opener after the first half when Jordan James nodded a deep Thomas corner back into a crowded six-yard box.

The Liechtenstein keeper was harassed by Dylan Lawlor and Joe Rodon, and his feeble attempt reached Nathan Broadhead who finished powerfully. But Welsh celebrations were halted when the referee was sent to the VAR screen and ruled that a player of the Welsh central defenders was in an offside position from Jordan's initial touch.

Wales increased the pressure after the break and Thomas sent in a cross to the far post which the winger hit the frame of the goal.

Williams then headed wide from within the penalty box as it started to seem like a difficult match for Wales.

Yet, with the game having ticked into its 61st minute, Williams played a shrewd pass for Daniel James to run past the Liechtenstein defenders.

Daniel James bypassed the goalkeeper with a delightful pass along the six-yard box, and his teammate Jordan had the easy job of relieving Welsh nerves.