IT WAS only four years ago that Chris Coleman’s men were strolling off the pitch in Serbia, having conceded six goals and trailing near the bottom of Group A in World Cup qualification for Brazil.
Many people believed that much of Gary Speed’s wonderful work had gone to waste and Wales had reverted back into a team that was easy to beat, lacking in passion and simply out of ideas.
Fast forward four years and that same side have just produced one of Wales finest ever footballing performances.
Having not qualified for a major tournament in 58 years the pressure has been on this group of the so called ‘golden generation’.
An accomplishment in its self to reach the tournament, this Wales team have exceeded expectations already.
Not only have they qualified for the knockout stages, but they have done it in style and there is a feeling amongst this group that they aren’t ready to go home, not just yet.
Hugely disappointed with conceding a last minute goal against England, and even more so in the manner they lost, it was important Wales didn’t dwell on the result.
It was a negative performance and certainly in possession they didn’t reach the standards they have set in recent times.
But as all great sides do, they bounced back.
Coleman didn’t allow his troops to wallow in self pity, instead he used the vital lessons learned from this game to galvanise his squad and inspire his team to produce their most complete performance to date.
The Russia game was a performance that typified this young squad. Full of passion, energy and moments of sheer brilliance.
Of course, Gareth bale stole the show with his star performance, but for me Aaron Ramsey was simply sensational.
What impressed me most was the bravery shown by every single player in a Welsh shirt in possession.
Not one player was hiding, every one wanted the ball and wanted to impact the game in a positive way.
Joe Allen was probably the main culprit for this, constantly demanding the ball in tight areas, dictating the tempo and showing the footballing world how good he really is.
Critics questioned Wales only having one warm up game pre-tournament, but it was evident how much work they have done on the training pitch and in the classroom.
Every player understands their role within the system and it seems whoever plays in the position they understand the job at hand.
It is a system that has been worked on, tested and evolved over time, but for Wales it seems they have a system that works for them.
It suits their best players, and Chris Coleman and his back room staff deserve an awful lot of credit.
So how far can they go in the tournament?
I think topping the group was key, meaning on paper Wales should have a slightly kinder draw in the last 16.
I think the way they are playing and the belief and momentum they have amongst the group that they can continue their stay, all the way to the semi finals.
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One thing is for sure, this group of players have inspired a nation. They have made them believe and the support not only in France, but also back home has been incredible.
Whatever happens from now on in, this group of players will be remembered for a long time, and in Wales they will forever be remembered as heroes.
From me the message is simple.
Keep it up boys, it’s been an absolute joy to watch.
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