(Football news) Gareth Bale single handedly took Wales to the World Cup playoffs final as they won 2-1 against Austria. The game started in the balance as both teams looked nervous. Christoph Baumgartner hit the bar in the fifth minute as Wales survived a major scare. Gareth Bale broke the deadlock in the 25th minute with an outrageous direct free kick to give Wales the lead. 

In the 51st minute, the Real Madrid man scored another outstanding goal after being set up by Ben Davies. 13 minutes later, Stefan Lainer set up Marcel Sabitzer who pulled a goal back to make it 2-1. Austria couldn't manage to create another chance as Wales booked their place in the final. Gareth Bale was at his absolute best despite not playing regular club football. Carlo Ancelotti may look at that performance and think about giving more game time to Bale once the international break is over. Austria's quest to play in the World Cup finals continues as they haven't qualified for the tournament since 1998. Wales' dream of reaching only their 2nd ever World Cup is still alive. They will now face the winner of Ukraine Vs Ukraine which is expected to take place in June.

Sweden left it late to win 1-0 against Czech Republic in extra time. The game as a whole was a stalemate as both teams were very cautious and barely created any chances in regular time. It was in the 110th minute when the deadlock was finally broken after Alexander Isak set up Robin Quaison. Sweden negotiated the rest of the game well and didn't concede many chances. They will now take on Poland away from home for a place in the Qatar World Cup.
 

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