Wilkinson backs Cymru squad ahead of Albania World Cup test

Cymru head coach Rhian Wilkinson has backed her squad ahead of their upcoming 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup Round One Play-Off against Albania despite several injury setbacks. Key players including Hayley Ladd, Ceri Holland, Mia Ross, Ffion Morgan, Laura Hughes, Ella Powell, and goalkeeper Olivia Clark have all been ruled out of the two-legged tie taking place on October 9 and October 13.

The squad features six uncapped players, including first-time senior call-ups for teenagers Casi Gregson and Heidi Hills, while former striker Kayleigh Barton joins the coaching staff. The winner of the tie will advance to face either Romania or Norway in a two-legged playoff for qualification to the World Cup Finals in Brazil.