Joe Rodon Shares Excitement About Competing Against Top Teams

Leeds United defender Joe Rodon proudly earned his 55th cap for Wales in a challenging match against England at Wembley Stadium. The match featured Wales facing off against the formidable Three Lions, managed by Thomas Tuchel. Rodon, who played the entire game, was joined by his teammates: Ethan Ampadu, the team captain, and goalkeeper Karl Darlow.
Reflections on the England Match
Despite the defeat, Rodon expressed optimism about the lessons learned from the encounter. Speaking to Welsh broadcaster S4C, he emphasized the importance of competing against elite teams. “Overall, it is a big learning experience for us,” Rodon remarked. He pointed out that matches against top competition reveal the level of performance Wales aspires to reach.
Key Takeaways from the Match
- Wales struggled with set pieces, leading to the first two goals.
- Rodon recognized the need for improved resilience and defensive strength.
- The second half showcased better performance from the team.
Rodon believes that analyzing their performance will result in growth. “It makes us way better as a team,” he noted, adding that the experience against England is vital as they prepare for upcoming matches.
Upcoming Challenges: World Cup Qualifier Against Belgium
Looking ahead, Wales will face Belgium in a crucial World Cup Qualifier. Rodon emphasized the importance of moving on from the England game and focusing on recovery. “We are all looking forward to it… we will just get back, recover and get ready to go again on Monday,” he stated.
Competing against top teams like England is a significant part of Wales’ journey to improvement and success. Rodon’s insights underline the belief that these experiences, no matter the outcome, are crucial for their development as a national team.