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O F F I C I A L M A T C H D A Y M A G A Z I N E | R H A G L E N S W Y D D O G O L Y G Ê M

v CROATIACYMRU

UEFA EUROPEAN QUALIFIERS | GÊM RAGBROFOL EWROPEAIDDCARDIFF CITY STADIUM | STADIWM DINAS CAERDYDD

13.10.19 | KICK OFF: 19:45 | CIC GYNTAF: 19:45

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WELCOME TO FC CYMRU, WHICH IS FULL OF FEATURES ON OUR UEFA EURO 2020 QUALIFIER AGAINST CROATIA HERE AT CARDIFF CITY STADIUM.

You’ll also find articles on wider aspects of Welsh football too - for example, find out what’s going on in the JD Cymru Premier and be inspired by Ayah Abduldaim who is encouraging girls from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities to play football.

Remember, you can also watch FC Cymru - the webshow featuring all things Welsh football, by scanning the QR code below.

DIOLCH,THE EDITOR.

GOOD EVENING, WELCOME EVERYONE TO TONIGHT’S QUALIFIER AGAINST CROATIA, LAST YEAR’S FIFA WORLD CUP FINALISTS.

I am writing these programme notes ahead of our trip to Slovakia on Thursday evening and hopefully we managed to return with a decent away result. Whatever happened we have always said that we need to win our home matches. So far our record this year is strong. We have played four, winning all four and in doing so have conceded just the one goal. A lot was said following our win over Azerbaijan but their draw against tonight’s opponents put that result into context. I feel they can again influence the final outcome in what is without a doubt a tough qualifying group. However, we can but concentrate on our own performances and there is no doubt we will need to be at our best this evening. During the past few years Croatia have been one of the outstanding teams in international football. But having said that, and despite not being at our best in the heat of Osijek, I feel we could have salvaged a late draw in June. There is little time in between matches but I am sure once again with your fantastic support, which is appreciated by the players and staff that we can continue positively on our journey to next year’s finals.

DIOLCH,RYANGORAU CHWARAE, CYD CHWARAE

NOSWAITH DDA, A CHROESO I’N GÊM RAGBROFOL YN ERBYN CROATIA.

Rydw i’n ysgrifennu’r nodiadau hyn ar gyfer y rhaglen cyn ein taith i Slofacia nos Iau, ac yn mawr obeithio y byddwn ni’n dychwelyd gyda chanlyniad cadarn oddi cartref. Beth bynnag a ddigwyddodd, rydym ni wastad wedi dweud bod angen i ni ennill ein gemau cartref. Hyd yn hyn mae ein record eleni yn gryf. Rydyn ni wedi chwarae pedair ac wedi ennill pob un, gan ildio un gôl yn unig wrth wneud hynny. Mae llawer wedi’i ddweud am ein buddugoliaeth dros Azerbaijan, ond fe wnaeth eu gêm gyfartal yn erbyn ein gwrthwynebwyr heno roi’r canlyniad hwnnw yn ei gyd-destun. Dwi’n teimlo y gallant eto ddylanwadu ar y canlyniad terfynol mewn grŵp anodd. Er hynny, mae’n rhaid i ni ganolbwyntio ar ein perfformiadau ein hunain a does dim amheuaeth y bydd angen i ni fod ar ein gorau heno. Yn ystod yr ychydig flynyddoedd diwethaf mae Croatia wedi bod yn un o’r timau gorau yn rhyngwladol. Ond wedi dweud hynny, ac er nad oedden ni ar ein gorau yng ngwres Osijek, dwi’n teimlo y gallen ni fod wedi cipio gêm gyfartal hwyr ym mis Mehefin. Does dim llawer o amser rhwng gemau ond dwi’n siŵr unwaith eto gyda’ch cefnogaeth wych, y mae’r chwaraewyr a’r staff yn ei gwerthfawrogi’n fawr, y gallwn ni barhau’n bositif ar ein taith i’r gystadleuaeth y flwyddyn nesaf.

DIOLCH,RYANGORAU CHWARAE, CYD CHWARAE

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RYAN GIGGS

WELCOME FROM / GAIR O GROESO GAN

@[email protected] QR codes for videos:

KIERAN O’CONNORFAW PRESIDENT / LLYWYDD CBDC

JONATHAN FORD CHIEF EXECUTIVE / PRIF WEITHREDWR

CROESO. WELCOME TO CARDIFF CITY STADIUMFOR THIS EUROPEAN QUALIFIER AGAINST A CROATIAN TEAM WHO REACHED THE FIFA WORLD CUP FINAL LAST SUMMER.

I’d like to provide a warm welcome to Davor Šuker – the President of the Croatian FA – along with his staff, management and playing squad. I really hope that Croatia’s fans have a fantastic time here in Wales too, enjoying everything that Cardiff and the surrounding areas have to offer. It’s now the business end of the qualifiers and following our win over Azerbaijan when we last played here at Cardiff, Group E is set for an exciting finale. Ryan Giggs has a strong squad with him here this evening and I wish him the very best for the match. Once again, I would like to thank Cardiff City Football Club for hosting this fixture, along with their staff. I’d also like to show my gratitude to all the FAW staff that also work tirelessly on these matches. Thank you all for your support and I wish you all a safe journey home.

REGARDS,KIERAN

CROESO I STADIWM DINAS CAERDYDD AR GYFER Y GÊM RAGBROFOL EWROPEAIDD HON YN ERBYN TÎM A LWYDDODD I GYRRAEDD ROWND DERFYNOL CWPAN Y BYD FIFA Y LLYNEDD.

Hoffwn estyn croeso cynnes i Davor Šuker – Llywydd Cymdeithas Bêl-droed Croatia – ynghyd â’i staff, y tîm rheoli a’r garfan. Rwy’n mawr obeithio y bydd cefnogwyr Croatia yn cael amser gwych yma yng Nghymru hefyd, ac yn mwynhau popeth sydd gan Gaerdydd a’r ardaloedd cyfagos i’w gynnig. Rydym ni bellach yn dynesu at derfyn y gemau rhagbrofol ac yn dilyn ein buddugoliaeth dros Azerbaijan yn ein gêm ddiwethaf yma yng Nghaerdydd, mae’n argoeli’n dda am ddiweddglo cyffrous i Grŵp E. Mae gan Ryan Giggs garfan gref yma heno a hoffwn ddymuno’r gorau iddo ar gyfer y gêm. Unwaith eto, hoffwn ddiolch i Glwb Pêl-droed Dinas Caerdydd am gynnal y gêm, ynghyd â’u staff. Hoffwn hefyd ddiolch i holl staff Cymdeithas Bêl-droed Cymru sydd hefyd yn gweithio’n ddiflino ar y gemau hyn. Diolch i chi i gyd am eich cefnogaeth a dyma ddymuno taith ddiogel adref i chi.

COFION,KIERAN

I WISH YOU ALL A VERY WARM WELCOME TO CARDIFF THIS EVENING FOR OUR MATCH AGAINST CROATIA AS BOTH TEAMS LOOK TO QUALIFY FOR UEFA EURO 2020.

This match is an incredibly exciting encounter that has a vast array of talent on show here at the Cardiff City Stadium. Wales and Croatia have played each other five times. Unfortunately, we’ve never beaten Croatia, who have won four of those encounters with the other match ending in a draw. Hopefully, we can change that here tonight. I’d like to wish Ryan all the very best ahead of this crucial game and I look forward to seeing your support for the team here tonight, it goes a very long way and inspires the players out on the pitch. Enjoy the game and have a safe journey home.

ENJOY THE GAME,JONATHAN

HOFFWN ESTYN CROESO CYNNES IAWN I BOB UN OHONOCH CHI I GAERDYDD HENO AR GYFER EIN GÊM YN ERBYN CROATIA WRTH I’R DDAU DÎM BARHAU Â’U HYMDRECH I GEISIO CYRRAEDD EWRO 2020 UEFA.

Mae hon yn addo bod yn ornest arbennig o gyffrous gyda gwledd o dalent i’w gweld yma yn Stadiwm Dinas Caerdydd. Mae Cymru a Croatia wedi dod benben bum gwaith yn y gorffennol. Yn anffodus, dydyn ni erioed wedi curo Croatia, sydd wedi ennill pedwar o’r gornestau hynny â’r llall yn dod i ben yn gyfartal. Dyma obeithio y gallwn ni newid hynny heno. Hoffwn ddymuno’r gorau i Ryan cyn y gêm dyngedfennol hon ac edrychaf ymlaen at weld eich gefnogaeth brwd ac enwog i’r tîm, mae’n mynd yn bell iawn a wir yn ysbrydoli’r chwaraewyr. Mwynhewch y gêm a dyma ddymuno siwrne ddiogel adref i chi

MWYNHEWCH Y GÊM,JONATHAN

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THE LIVERPOOL DEFENDER BEGAN HIS YOUTH CAREER IN GERMANY WITH BSC SENDLING AFTER HIS FAMILY FLED TO GERMANY TO ESCAPE THE WAR WHEN HE WAS A CHILD.

However, he returned to his native country and made his senior debut for Dinamo Zagreb in 2006. Following a loan spell with Croatian side Inter Zaprešić, Lovren arrived in France in 2010 when he signed for Lyon, and remained at the club for three seasons before moving to the English Premier League with Southampton. In 2014, Lovren joined Liverpool in a reported £20m transfer. Having represented Croatia at every intermediate age, Lovren made his senior international debut in November 2009 in a friendly against Qatar, and has since made over 50 appearances for his country. One of his three goals for Croatia came against Wales at the Liberty Stadium in March 2013.

DECHREUODD LOVREN, SY’N AMDDIFFYNNWR I DÎM LERPWL, EI YRFA IEUENCTID GYDA BSC SENDLING YN YR ALMAEN, A HYNNY WEDI I’W DEULU FFOI YNO ODDI WRTH Y RHYFEL PAN OEDD YN BLENTYN.

Serch hynny, dychwelodd i’w wlad enedigol gan wneud ei ymddangosiad cyntaf yn chwarae dros Dinamo Zagreb yn 2006. Ar ôl cyfnod ar fenthyg gyda’rtîm Croataidd Inter Zaprešić, symudodd i dîm Lyon, Ffrainc, gan aros yno am dri thymor cyn ymuno â Southampton yn Uwch Gynghrair Lloegr. Yn 2014, ymunodd Lovren â Lerpwl, gan gostio tua £20 miliwn i’r tîm. Ag yntau wedi cynrychioli Croatia ar bob lefel, chwaraeodd ei gêm gyntaf i’r tîm cyntaf ym mis Tachwedd 2009, mewn gêm gyfeillgar yn erbyn Qatar. Ers hynny mae wedi ymddangos dros 50 o weithiau dros ei wlad. Daeth un o dair gôl y mae wedi’u sgorio dros Croatia yn ystod gêm yn erbyn Cymru yn Stadiwm y Liberty ym mis Mawrth 2013.SINCE MAKING HIS INTERNATIONAL

DEBUT IN MARCH 2011, PERIŠIĆ IS NOW CLOSING IN ON A CENTURY OF APPEARANCES FOR CROATIA, SCORING 24 GOALS IN THE PROCESS, INCLUDING ONE IN THE 2018 FIFA WORLD CUP FINAL.

The versatile forward has also played for Croatia at U17, U19 and U21 level before progressing to the senior squad. Currently on-loan at German giants Bayern Munich from Italian outfit Inter Milan, Perišić has also played club football in France and Belgium in addition to representing Borussia Dortmund and VfL Wolfsburg in Germany. Perišić scored against Wales in the current qualifying campaign as he scored the second goal in the 2-1 victory for Croatia in Osijek in June.

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O P P O S I T I O N F O C U S : T H R E E T O W A T C H

AGE: 30 | OEDRAN: 30POSITION: DEFENDER | SAFLE: AMDDIFFYNNWR

AGE: 30 | OEDRAN: 30POSITION: FORWARD | SAFLE: BLAENWR

DEJAN LOVREN

IVAN PERIŠIĆ

LUKA MODRIĆ

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ERS YMDDANGOS I’W WLAD AM Y TRO CYNTAF YM MIS MAWRTH 2011, MAE PERIŠIĆ YN AGOSÁU AT GAEL CANT O GAPIAU DROS GROATIA.

Yn ystod y cyfnod hwnnw, mae wedi sgorio 24 gôl, gan gynnwys un yn rownd derfynol Cwpan y Byd FIFA 2018. Mae’r blaenwr amryddawn hefyd wedi chwarae i dîm dan 17, dan 19 a dan 21 Croatia, cyn mynd yn ei flaen i chwarae dros y tîm cyntaf. Ag yntau ar fenthyg ar hyn o bryd o dîm Inter Milan yn yr Eidal, gyda’r tîm Almaenig Bayern Munich, mae Perišić hefyd wedi chwarae i dimau yn Ffrainc a Gwlad Belg, yn ogystal â chynrychioli Borussia Dortmund a VfL Wolfsburg yn yr Almaen. Sgoriodd Perišić yn erbyn Cymru yn yr ymgyrch ragbrofol bresennol, yr ail gôl a sicrhaodd fuddugoliaeth 2-1 i Groatia yn Osijek ym mis Mehefin.

REGARDED AS ONE OF THE MOST TALENTED FOOTBALLERS IN THE WORLD, CAPTAIN MODRIĆ REMAINS A KEY FIGURE IN THIS CROATIAN TEAM.

The Real Madrid midfielder will regard 2018 as the defining year of his career, as in addition to reaching the World Cup final and being named as the player of the tournament, he also claimed the Ballon d’Or and both UEFA and FIFA Best Player awards. His career began with Dinamo Zagreb, but he came to prominence with his performances for Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League between 2008 and 2012. He arrived at Real Madrid in a reported £30m move that summer, and remains an influential figure at the club, claiming the UEFA Champions League four times to date. Considered the greatest Croatian footballer of all time, Modrić has made over 100 appearances for his country since making his senior international debut in 2006.

AG YNTAU’N CAEL EI YSTYRIED YN UN O CHWARAEWYR PÊL-DROED MWYAF GALLUOG Y BYD, MAE’R CAPTEN LUKA MODRIĆ YN PARHAU FEL UN O FFIGURAU AMLYCAF TÎM PRESENNOL CROATIA.

Bydd canolwr Real Madrid yn ystyried 2018 fel blwyddyn a fydd yn diffinio ei yrfa. Yn ogystal â chyrraedd rownd derfynol Cwpan y Byd ac ennill chwaraewr y twrnamaint, cipiodd wobr Ballon d’or- yn ogystal â gwobrau chwaraewr gorau UEFA a FIFA. Dechreuodd ei yrfa â Dinamo Zagreb, ond daeth i’r amlwg gyda’i berfformiadau dros Tottenham Hotspur yn Uwch Gynghrair Lloegr rhwng 2008 a 2012. Symudodd i Real Madrid yr haf hwnnw am oddeutu £30 miliwn ac mae’n parhau’n un o ffigurau mwyaf dylanwadol y clwb, ar ôl hawlio Cynghrair Pencampwyr UEFA bedair gwaith hyd yn hyn. Fe’i hystyrir yn un o chwaraewyr gorau erioed Croatia, ac mae wedi ymddangos dros 100 o weithiau dros ei wlad ers cychwyn ar ei yrfa yn 2006.

B W R W G O L W G D R O S E I N G W R T H W Y N E B W Y R : T R I T H A L E N T

AGE: 30 | OEDRAN: 30POSITION: FORWARD | SAFLE: BLAENWR

AGE: 34 | OEDRAN: 34POSITION: MIDFIELDER | SAFLE: CANOL CAE

O P P O S I T I O N F O C U S : M E E T T H E M A N A G E R | D O D I A D N A B O D Y R H E O L W R

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BORN IN YUGOSLAVIA, DALIĆ WAS A FORMER DEFENSIVE MIDFIELDER WHO BEGAN HIS SENIOR PLAYING CAREER IN THE EARLY 1980’S.

During his career he played for Hajduk Split over three separate spells, where he won his only trophy as a player, and also played club football in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro. His coaching career began with Croatian side Varteks in 2004 before taking charge at Rijeka and Slaven Belupo, and he also managed in Albania before heading to the Saudi Arabia in 2010. After seven years coaching in the Saudi Professional League and the United Arab Emirates, Dalić answered the call in 2017 to become the manager of the Croatian national team following the dismissal of Ante Čačić. Qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup was achieved shortly after his appointment, and he made history in Russia the following summer by leading Croatia to the World Cup final for the first time in their history. However, they suffered a 4-2 defeat against France to deny them glory in Moscow.

GANWYD DALIĆ YN IWGOSLAFIA, AC MAE’N GYN-GANOLWR AMDDIFFYNNOL A DDECHREUODD EI YRFA YN YR 1980AU CYNNAR.

Yn ystod ei yrfa bu’n chwarae i Hajduk Split dros dri chyfnod gwahanol, lle’r enillodd ei unig dlws fel chwaraewr, yn ogystal â chwarae i dimau yn Bosnia a Herzegovina a Montenegro. Dechreuodd ei yrfa hyfforddi gyda’r tîm o Groatia, Varteks, yn 2004, cyn cymryd yr awenau â chlybiau Rijeka a Slaven Belupo, yn ogystal â rheoli yn Albania cyn anelu am Saudi Arabia yn 2010. Wedi saith mlynedd yn hyfforddi yng Nghynghrair Broffesiynol Saudi Arabia ac yn yr Emiradau Arabaidd Unedig, derbyniodd gynnig i fod yn hyfforddwr ar dîm cenedlaethol Croatia yn 2017, wedi diswyddiad Ante Čačić. Cyrhaeddodd y tîm bencampwriaeth Cwpan y Byd FIFA 2018 yn fuan wedi iddo ddechrau ar y swydd, cyn mynd ymlaen i greu hanes yr haf canlynol gan arwain Croatia i rownd derfynol Cwpan y Byd am y tro cyntaf yn hanes y wlad. Serch hynny, colli o 4 gôl i 2 yn erbyn Ffrainc oedd eu hanes ym Moscow.

ZLATKO DALIĆ

O P P O S I T I O N F O C U S : M E E T T H E M A N A G E R | D O D I A D N A B O D Y R H E O L W R

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THIS IS THE SIXTH MEETING BETWEEN THE TWO NATIONS, AND RYAN GIGGS WILL BE DESPERATE FOR HIS TALENTED YOUNG SQUAD TO BE THE FIRST WALES TEAM TO CLAIM A VICTORY.

A 2-1 win for Croatia in Osijek back in June was their fourth victory in their last four games against Wales. An own goal from James Lawrence put Croatia ahead in the opening half, and Ivan Perišić increased the advantage in the second half. David Brooks offered hope for Wales with his effort later in the game, but Croatia held on to claim maximum points.

The first match between the two sides took place in Varazdin back in August 2002, and it remains the only time that Wales have avoided defeat against Croatia. An early goal from Simon Davies was cancelled out by Mladen Petrić in a 1-1 friendly draw. Wales then returned to Croatia for another friendly in May 2010, but goals from Ivan Rakitić and Drago Gabrić earned Slaven Bilić’s side the victory.

The first competitive match between Wales and Croatia took

place in Osijek in October 2012, as Chris Coleman’s side looked to make an early impression on their 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying group. However, Mario Mandžukić and Eduardo scored either side of half-time to claim a 2-0 win. It was a similar story in the return match the following March, as despite Gareth Bale opening the scoring at the Liberty Stadium in Swansea from the penalty spot, late goals from Eduardo and Dejan Lovren sealed a 2-1 victory for Croatia.

DYMA’R CHWECHED GÊM RHWNG Y DDWY WLAD, AC MAE’N DEBYG Y BYDD RYAN GIGGS AR DÂN I’W DÎM IFANC, TALENTOG YNTAU FOD Y CYNTAF O DIMAU CYMRU I HAWLIO BUDDUGOLIAETH.

Buddugoliaeth 2-1 yn Osijek fis Mehefin oedd pedwaredd fuddugoliaeth yn olynol Croatia dros Gymru. Rhoddodd James Lawrence Groatia ar y blaen drwy sgorio i’w rwyd ei hun, ac ychwanegodd Ivan Perišić gôl arall yn yr ail hanner. Codwyd gobeithion Cymru yn hwyrach yn y gêm wedi i David Brooks sgorio, ond llwyddodd Croatia i ddal eu gafael ar y

fuddugoliaeth gan hawlio pob pwynt.

Cyfarfu’r ddwy wlad am y tro cyntaf yn Varazdin ym mis Awst 2002, a dyna’r unig dro hyd heddiw i Gymru beidio â cholli gêm yn erbyn Croatia. Sgoriodd Simon Davies yn gynnar yn y gêm, dim ond i Mladen Petrić unioni’r sgôr ac i’r gêm orffen yn gyfartal o 1-1. Dychwelodd Cymru i Groatia ar gyfer gêm gyfeillgar arall ym mis Mai 2010, ond Croatia aeth a hi diolch i goliau gan Ivan Rakitić a Drago Gabrić.

Chwaraewyd y gêm gystadleuol gyntaf rhwng y ddwy wlad yn Osijek ym mis Hydref 2012, lle’r oedd tîm Chris Coleman yn gobeithio gwneud argraff dda yn gynnar yn eu grŵp yng ngemau rhagbrofol Cwpan y Byd FIFA 2014. Serch hynny, sgoriwyd goliau gan Mario Mandžukić ac Eduardo er mwyn sicrhau buddugoliaeth o 2-0. Stori debyg oedd y gêm ddilynol ym mis Mawrth y flwyddyn ganlynol, ac er i Gareth Bale sgorio’r gôl gyntaf o’r smotyn yn Stadiwm Liberty, Abertawe, daeth dwy gan Eduardo a Dejan Lovren, gan sicrhau buddugoliaeth o 2-1 i Groatia.

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W A L E ST H E

C A M P A I G NS O F A R

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NOT FOR THE FIRST TIME, AND PROBABLY NOT FOR THE LAST TIME EITHER, GARETH BALE SCORED A CRUCIAL WINNING GOAL FOR WALES AGAINST AZERBAIJAN HERE AT THE CARDIFF CITY STADIUM LAST MONTH TO SECURE MAXIMUM POINTS IN A 2-1 VICTORY.

“Azerbaijan made it difficult,” said Bale after the match. “We were sloppy at times but we ground it through and showed our character. We just tried to keep doing what we were doing – be patient. We were playing decent football. We need to learn these things; we’re doing new things the manager wants.”

The win followed on from a disappointing summer for manager Ryan Giggs as defeats away to Croatia and Hungary had left Wales looking up at our Group E rivals rather than down. However, the side still maintain a perfect record at home having beaten Slovakia 1-0 on the opening matchday through a fine strike from debutant Daniel James. Giggs was optimistic

of the victory setting the tone for the remainder of the campaign, but the challenge of 2018 World Cup finalists Croatia and Hungary proved too difficult a test as respective 2-1 and 1-0 defeats followed over the course of a frustrating couple of days in June.

Injuries have also added to the performance inconsistencies for Wales, with the influential Aaron Ramsey still yet to kick a ball in the campaign. However, others have made the most of their opportunity to impress. “I want to give players chances,” said Giggs. “We’re back in it, we’ve got two home games left. We’ve got talented players who want to entertain the crowd. Our support has been wonderful, and it does make a difference. It gives the players a lift. You’ve got to fight until the end, it affects the opposition when they know that they’re up against a team that will keep going. It’s a big thing that you want in your team, not to give up.”

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“The #FootballPeople weeks are a crucial focal point of the fight against racism,

discrimination and intolerance in football. Thousands of people are involved each

year – and UEFA is a committed partner, using its high-profile competitions as a platform

to spread key messages.Let’s all celebrate diversity and inclusion

in the beautiful game!”

UEFA PRESIDENT ALEKSANDER ČEFERIN

The #FootballPeople weeks are designed to tackle discrimination within European football, raising awareness and helping to bring about positive change. Organised by UEFA’s social responsibility partner the Fare network, the campaign takes place from 10 until 24 October 2019, and offers supporters, clubs, and communities across Europe the chance to get involved and add their voice to the movement.

“There is no place in football for discrimination. The #FootballPeople weeks

give the European football community the perfect opportunity to send out

a strong and united message supporting inclusion and diversity.

Together, we can bring about change – and ensure that any form of discrimination

is a thing of the past.”

FARE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PIARA POWAR

#EqualGame logo. Positive. Pantone 298 Blue and 655 Blue

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NID AM Y TRO CYNTAF, AC YN SIŴR DDIM AM Y TRO OLAF, SGORIODD GARETH BALE GÔL DYNGEDFENNOL ER MWYN SICRHAU BUDDUGOLIAETH 2-1 I GYMRU YN ERBYN AZERBAIJAN YN STADIWM DINAS CAERDYDD FIS DIWETHAF.

“Fe wnaeth Azerbaijan bethau yn anodd,” meddai Bale wedi’r gêm. “Roedden ni’n flêr ar brydiau, ond fe ddalion ni ati ac fe ddaeth ein cymeriad fel tîm i’r amlwg. Fe drïon ni wneud yr hyn rydyn ni wastad yn ei wneud – bod yn amyneddgar. Roedden ni’n chwarae yn o lew! Mae angen i ni ddysgu’r pethau hyn; rydyn ni’n gwneud pethau newydd, pethau rydyn ni’n eu dysgu gan y rheolwr.”

Daeth y fuddugoliaeth wedi haf siomedig i’r rheolwr Ryan Giggs ar ôl i’r tîm golli yn erbyn Croatia a Hwngari, a’u cael eu hunain ar waelod Grŵp E. Serch hynny, mae record gartref y tîm yn gadarn ar ôl iddynt drechu Slofacia 1-0 yn y gêm agoriadol yn dilyn gôl fendigedig gan

Daniel James yn ei ymddangosiad cyntaf. Roedd Giggs yn obeithiol y byddai’r fuddugoliaeth yn gosod y bar ar gyfer gweddill yr ymgyrch, ond profodd yr her yn ormod gan y tîm a lwyddodd i gyrraedd rownd derfynol Cwpan y Byd 2018, Croatia a Hwngari, wedi i Gymru golli’r ddwy gêm o 2-1 a 1-0.

Mae anafiadau wedi cyfrannu at berfformiad anghyson gan Gymru, gydag Aaron Ramsay heb gicio’r un bêl eto. Er hynny, mae chwaraewyr eraill wedi manteisio ar y cyfle i serennu. “Rydw i eisiau rhoi cyfle i’r chwaraewyr,” meddai Giggs. “Mae cyfle i ni o hyd, gyda dwy gêm gartref ar ôl. Mae gennym ni chwaraewyr dawnus sydd yn benderfynol o roi adloniant i’r dorf. Mae’r cefnogwyr wedi bod yn wych, ac mae’n gwneud gwahaniaeth. Mae’n rhoi hwb i’r chwaraewyr. Mae’n rhaid ymladd tan y diwedd. Mae’n gwneud gwahaniaeth fod ein gwrthwynebwr yn gwybod na fyddwn yn rhoi’r ffidil yn y to. Mae dyfalbarhad yn bwysig i’r tîm.”

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C Y M R U Y R Y M G Y R C H H Y D Y N H Y N

“The #FootballPeople weeks are a crucial focal point of the fight against racism,

discrimination and intolerance in football. Thousands of people are involved each

year – and UEFA is a committed partner, using its high-profile competitions as a platform

to spread key messages.Let’s all celebrate diversity and inclusion

in the beautiful game!”

UEFA PRESIDENT ALEKSANDER ČEFERIN

The #FootballPeople weeks are designed to tackle discrimination within European football, raising awareness and helping to bring about positive change. Organised by UEFA’s social responsibility partner the Fare network, the campaign takes place from 10 until 24 October 2019, and offers supporters, clubs, and communities across Europe the chance to get involved and add their voice to the movement.

“There is no place in football for discrimination. The #FootballPeople weeks

give the European football community the perfect opportunity to send out

a strong and united message supporting inclusion and diversity.

Together, we can bring about change – and ensure that any form of discrimination

is a thing of the past.”

FARE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PIARA POWAR

#EqualGame logo. Positive. Pantone 298 Blue and 655 Blue

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C R O A T I AT H E C A M P A I G N

S O F A RY R Y M G Y R C H H Y D Y N H Y N

ALTHOUGH WALES WERE ABLE TO CLAIM MAXIMUM POINTS AGAINST AZERBAIJAN LAST MONTH, THE SAME COULD NOT BE SAID FOR 2018 WORLD CUP FINALISTS CROATIA.

For the second time in the campaign, Azerbaijan caused problems for Zlatko Dalić’s side as their counter-attacking tactics earned them a 1-1 draw in Baku. Despite falling behind to a Luka Modrić penalty after 11 minutes, Azerbaijan regrouped and scored a surprise equaliser through Tamkin Khalilzade midway through the second half.

The campaign began for Croatia with a 2-1 victory over Azerbaijan in Zagreb last March thanks to goals from Borna Barišić and Andrej Kramarić after Ramil Sheydaev had put the visitors ahead. A surprise 2-1 defeat to Hungary in Budapest followed for Croatia a few days later, but they made amends in Osijek in June with a 2-1 win over Wales. An own goal from James Lawrence put Croatia ahead after 17 minutes, and the lead was extended through Ivan Perišić early in the second half. David Brooks scored a late consolation for Wales but Croatia held on for the win.

Croatia then made their intentions clear as they headed to Trnava to take on Slovakia last month. Four different players were on target in the 4-0 win, with Nikola Vlašić, Bruno Petković, Dejan Lovren and Perišić again all finding themselves on the scoresheet. However, the nature of the group means that no team can take any other for granted, and the good work in Trnava was undone a few days later in Baku as the hosts claimed a share of the points.

ER BOD CYMRU WEDI HAWLIO’R TRIPHWYNT CYFAN YN ERBYN AZERBAIJAN FIS DIWETHAF, STORI WAHANOL OEDD HI I DÎM CROATIA.

Am yr ail dro yn yr ymgyrch, bu Azerbaijan yn her i dîm Zlatko Dalić, wedi i’w tactegau ymosod sicrhau gêm gyfartal 1-1 iddynt yn Baku. Er i Luka Modrić sgorio cic gosb wedi 11 munud, daeth Azerbaijan at ei gilydd ac fe sgoriodd Tamkin Khalilzade y gôl a fyddai’n dod â’r timau’n gyfartal hanner ffordd drwy’r ail hanner.

Dechreuodd ymgyrch Croatia gyda buddugoliaeth 2-1 yn erbyn Azerbaijan yn Zagreb fis Mawrth diwethaf, a hynny wedi goliau gan Borna Barišić, Andrej Kramarić a Ramil Sheydaev. Er hynny, rai dyddiau’n ddiweddarach fe’u trechwyd yn annisgwyl o 2 gôl i 1 yn erbyn Hwngari yn Budapest. Ond llwyddodd y tîm i achub eu cam yn Osijek ym mis Mehefin gyda buddugoliaeth 2-1 yn erbyn Cymru. Sgoriodd James Lawrence i’w rwyd ei hun gan roi Croatia ar y blaen wedi 17 munud. Sgoriodd Ivan Perišić un gôl ychwanegol yn gynnar yn yr ail hanner. Er i David Brooks sgorio gôl hwyr i Gymru, Croatia oedd piau’r fuddugoliaeth.

Wedi hynny, gwnaeth Croatia eu bwriad yn glir wrth deithio i Trnava er mwyn wynebu Slofacia fis diwethaf. Sgoriodd pedwar chwaraewr gwahanol i’w gwneud hi’n 4-0, sef Nikola Vlašić, Bruno Petković, Dejan Lovren a Perišić. Er hynny, mae safon y grŵp yn golygu na all yr un tîm gymryd dim yn ganiataol, a rhai dyddiau wedi’r fuddugoliaeth yn Trnava fe lwyddodd Azerbaijan i hawlio cyfran o’r pwyntiau.

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INTERVIEW WITH ELVIR ISLAMOVIĆFC CYMRU RECENTLY CAUGHT-UPWITH CROATIAN FOOTBALL JOURNALIST ELVIR ISLAMOVIĆ FOR HIS TAKE ON THE 2018 FIFA WORLD CUP FINALISTS.VISIT WWW.24SATA.HR FOR MOREFROM ELVIR.

Q. We are at the business end of the qualifying campaign, Croatia currently top the group but have dropped points unexpectedly. What do make of the campaign so far, and what is the general feeling about it in Croatia?A. The country is still under the impression of historical success at the World Cup in Russia and there is no room for criticism in this qualifying campaign. It is true we have seen Croatia’s two different faces so far, but nobody here is worried too much about the outcome of the qualifiers. There are several reasons for that. The team and the coach earned huge credit in Russia and the nation believe that they will manage to be among the teams at EURO 2020. The second reason is the performance we saw against Slovakia, as that was one of the best Croatia matches ever, definitely the best since Zlatko Dalić has been in charge, including the World Cup matches. The third reason is that Croatia have two home matches against Hungary and Slovakia where they can get the rest of the job done.

Q. It’s just over a year since Croatia reached the World Cup final. What has been the legacy of that achievement? A. I won’t lie if I say that these were the biggest moments in the history

of Croatian sport. I had the privilege to be with the team in Russia and I honestly think those were the greatest moments of my journalism career. And most emotional. I missed the atmosphere in the country, but I was told it was something unbelievable back home. I talked to the players that time on a daily basis and that atmosphere gave them some extra strength to come back from behind when needed. Today, these guys are still the heroes, and the people of Croatia are happy to have had the chance to live in the time when Croatia were in the World Cup final and to experience such unforgettable memories.

Q. How does the Croatia team that reached the World Cup final compare to the great team that reached the semi-final in 1998? Are there any particular similarities between them?A. Until the last World Cup, every Croatian generation and team was expected to go somewhere near the success of 1998. One of the questions for all the later stars like Modrić or Rakitić was always - “Can you repeat the success of the generation 1998?”. Legends like Šuker and Boban seemed untouchable and there was no such expectations from this team when they left for Russia. But the things quickly changed, and now Modrić, Rakitić and others will be remembered as the most successful generation of Croatian footballers. It’s hard to compare the teams, both were full of big stars and both had a world-class midfield, Boban and Prosinečki on one side, Modrić and Rakitić on the other. Actually, Croatia always had an incredible class in midfield.

Q. What sort of match are you

O P P O S I T I O N F O C U S : T H E V I E W F R O M T H E P R E S S B O X

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expecting between Wales and Croatia in Cardiff, and how do you expect Zlatko Dalić to approach it tactically?A. Dalić always says that Croatia will play attacking football against anybody. The problem is on the other side. Croatia are playing better against the teams that like to attack, we saw that against Slovakia. The home team had big expectations and they wanted to do something in attack, but they couldn’t do much and they left a lot of space for Croatia. On the other side, when the opponents are focused on defence with fast and dangerous counter-attacks, it can do more damage to Croatia. For Dalić, the most important thing will be not to lose in Cardiff, and everything above that would be a bonus.

CYFWELIAD GYDAG ELVIR ISLAMOVIĆCAFODD FC CYMRU SGWRS Â’R NEWYDDIADURWR PÊL-DROED O GROATIA, ELVIR ISLAMOVIĆ, YN DDIWEDDAR ER MWYN CLYWED EI SAFBWYNTIAU AR Y TÎM A GYRHAEDDODD ROWND DERFYNOL CWPAN Y BYD FIFA 2018. EWCH I WWW.24SATA.HR ER MWYN CLYWED RHAGOR GAN ELVIR.

C. Mae diwedd yr ymgyrch yn nesáu a Chroatia ar frig y grŵp, ond maen nhw wedi colli pwyntiau yn annisgwyl. Beth yw dy farn ar yr ymgyrch hyd yn hyn, a sut mae pobl yn teimlo yng Nghroatia?A. Mae llwyddiant hanesyddol y tîm yng nghystadleuaeth Cwpan y Byd yn Rwsia yn ffres yn y cof, ac nid oes lle i feirniadu yn yr ymgyrch hon. Mae’n wir i ni weld dwy ochr i’r tîm hyd yn

hyn, ond does neb yma yn poeni’n ormodol am ganlyniadau’r gemau rhagbrofol. Mae sawl rheswm dros hynny. Enillwyd pawb i ochr y tîm a’r hyfforddwr ar ôl y llwyddiant yn Rwsia, ac mae’r genedl yn credu y bydd y tîm yn cyrraedd pencampwriaeth EWRO 2020. Yr ail reswm yw’r perfformiad gwych yn erbyn Slofacia. Mae’n cael ei hystyried yn un o gemau gorau Croatia erioed, heb os y gêm orau ers i Zlatko Dalić fod wrth y llyw, gan gynnwys gemau Cwpan y Byd. Y trydydd rheswm yw bod gan Groatia ddwy gêm gartref yn erbyn Hwngari a Slofacia i gau pen y mwdwl ar bethau.

C. Dim ond cwta flwyddyn sydd wedi mynd heibio ers i Groatia gyrraedd rownd derfynol Cwpan y Byd. Beth yw gwaddol y llwyddiant hwnnw?A. Yn gwbl onest, dyma oedd uchafbwynt hanes pêl-droed Croatia. Cefais y fraint o fod gyda’r tîm yn Rwsia, ac rydw i wir yn meddwl mai’r cyfnod hwnnw oedd uchafbwynt fy ngyrfa newyddiadurol. Yn ogystal â’r cyfnod mwyaf emosiynol. Er i mi fethu’r awyrgylch gartref, ro’n yn clywed fod pawb mewn anghrediniaeth. Bryd hynny, ro’n i’n siarad â’r chwaraewyr yn ddyddiol, ac roedd yr awyrgylch hwnnw’n hwb iddynt godi yn eu hôl pan oedd angen. Heddiw, mae’r tîm yn dal i fod yn arwyr, ac mae pobl Croatia wrth eu bodd o gael y profiad o fyw drwy’r cyfnod y cyrhaeddodd Croatia rownd derfynol Cwpan y Byd, yn ogystal â chael creu atgofion bythgofiadwy.

C. Sut mae’r tîm hwnnw, a gyrhaeddodd rownd derfynol Cwpan y Byd, yn cymharu â’r tîm gwych a gyrhaeddodd y rownd gynderfynol ym 1998? A oes unrhyw debygrwydd rhyngddynt?A. Hyd nes y gystadleuaeth Cwpan y

Byd ddiwethaf, roedd disgwyl i bob cenhedlaeth a phob tîm yng Nghroatia gyrraedd rhywle yn agos at lwyddiant 1998. Un cwestiwn a ofynnwyd byth a beunydd i chwaraewyr fel Modrić a Rakitić oedd - “A allwch chi ail-greu llwyddiant cenhedlaeth 1998?” Ymddangosai dawn chwaraewyr chwedlonol fel Šuker a Boban yn anghyraeddadwy, ac felly nid oedd disgwyliadau o’r fath ar ysgwyddau’r tîm wrth adael am Rwsia. Ond fe newidiodd pethau’n sydyn, ac erbyn hyn bydd chwaraewyr fel Modrić, Rakitić ac eraill yn cael eu cofio fel cenhedlaeth fwyaf llwyddiannus Croatia. Mae’n anodd cymharu’r timau, roedd gan y ddau dîm sawl seren yn ogystal â chwaraewyr canol cae rhagorol, Boban a Prosinečki y tro cyntaf a Modrić and Rakitić yr eildro. A dweud y gwir, mae chwaraewyr canol cae Croatia wastad wedi rhagori.

C. Sut gêm ydych chi’n ei disgwyl rhwng Cymru a Chroatia yng Nghaerdydd, a sut ydych chi’n disgwyl i Zlatko Dalić baratoi’n dactegol?A. Mae Dalić wastad yn dweud y bydd Croatia yn chwarae’n ymosodol yn erbyn unrhyw dîm. Mae’r broblem yr ochr arall. Fel y gwelson ni yn y gêm yn erbyn Slofacia, mae Croatia yn well am chwarae yn erbyn timau sy’n barod i ymosod. Yn y gêm honno roedd disgwyliadau mawr ar y tîm cartref, ac roedden nhw’n awyddus i ymosod, ond ychydig y gallen nhw fod wedi’i wneud, ac o’r herwydd roedd llawer o ofod i Groatia. Pan fo’r gwrthwynebwyr yn canolbwyntio ar amddiffyn gan wrthymosod yn gyflym ac yn beryglus, gall hynny greu mwy o ddifrod i Groatia. I Dalić mae’r pwyslais ar beidio â cholli yng Nghaerdydd, ac fe fydd unrhyw beth ychwanegol yn fonws.

B W R W G O L W G A R E I N G W R T H W Y N E B W Y R : G A I R G A N Y W A S G

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14014-CWALE Programme Ad A5 210x148mm.pdf 1 03/04/2019 15:11

Gareth Bale and Luka Modrić played together at Tottenham Hotspur over a decade ago, and were reunited at Real Madrid in 2013. Between them the pair have played pivotal roles in bringing almost 30 major titles to the Spanish capital, including four UEFA Champions League trophies, and will aim to bring more silverware to the Santiago Bernabéu this season. However, their friendship will be put to one side when they go head-to-head in what is another crucial EURO 2020 qualifier for both nations at the Cardiff City Stadium tonight.

“Luka Modrić is incredible,” Croatian football journalist Elvir Islamović told FC Cymru. “As a player and as a person. He showed he is the great leader of this generation, not only on the pitch, but also off it. I have had the honour of being close to him over the course of the last decade, and I have seen him grow into the class player and captain he is today. Last season, and all the trophies he earned and deserved, the world had a chance see how brilliant Modrić is. Recently, he said he never had any thoughts about missing some international action for Croatia, and never tried to avoid even the less attractive friendlies. He has of course earned hero status in the country.”

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A D E F I N I N G Y E A RB L W Y D D Y N

D Y N G E D F E N N O L

L U K A M O D R I Ć

Modrić enjoyed the best year of his career in 2018 as he scooped a host of prestigious individual awards. In addition, the creative midfielder played an influential role in leading Croatia to the World Cup final, and celebrated yet another Champions League success with Real Madrid. As well as claiming the highest individual awards from FIFA and UEFA, Modric also ended Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi’s decade-long monopoly of the Ballon d’Or. This recognition was testament to his inspirational contribution to the Croatian cause during his career, culminating in taking his country to within one match of the most coveted prize of all. “You can be sure that he is the greatest Croatian player of all time,” Islamović added. “And he will be there at the top for a long time to come. I remember the time I travelled around the world after the success in 1998, everybody knew about Davor Šuker, but now the world appreciates the magic of Modrić. Even today, the name of Davor Šuker earns big respect, but I am sure the name of Luka Modrić will sound even more impressive to football fans in the future. He put his name among the world’s biggest football legends. In Croatia, his name will be dominant for a long time.”

Bu Gareth Bale a Luka Modrić yn gyd-chwaraewyr yn Tottenham Hotspur dros ddegawd yn ôl, a daethant ynghyd unwaith yn rhagor gyda Real Madrid yn 2013. Rhyngddynt mae’r ddau wedi chwarae rhan hollbwysig yn cipio bron i 30 teitl i’r tîm, gan gynnwys pedair cwpan Cynghrair Pencampwyr UEFA, gan anelu am ddod â rhagor o dlysau i’r Santiago Bernabéu y tymor hwn. Serch hynny, bydd yn rhaid iddynt roi eu cyfeillgarwch i’r neilltu yn ystod y gêm ragbrofol dyngedfennol EWRO 2020 yn Stadiwm Dinas Caerdydd heno.

“Mae Luka Modrić yn anhygoel,” meddai’r newyddiadurwr pêl-droed o Groatia, Elvir Islamović, wrth FC Cymru. “Fel chwaraewr yn ogystal â pherson. Dangosodd ei allu i arwain ei genhedlaeth, ar y cae ac oddi arno. Cefais y fraint o fod yn agos ato yn ystod y ddegawd ddiwethaf, gan ei weld yn tyfu’n chwaraewr a chapten o’r radd flaenaf. Bu’r tymor diwethaf a’r holl gwpanau y bu iddo eu hennill yn gyfle i bawb arall weld pa mor anhygoel yw Modrić. Dywedodd yn ddiweddar na fyddai’n ystyried methu gemau rhyngwladol dros Groatia, nac yn ceisio osgoi’r gemau cyfeillgar llai cyffrous. Mae wedi ennill ei le fel arwr yn y wlad.”

Profodd Modrić flwyddyn fwyaf llwyddiannus ei yrfa yn 2018, wrth iddo ennill llu o wobrau unigol mawreddog. Yn ogystal â hynny, chwaraeodd ran bwysig wrth arwain ei wlad i rownd derfynol Cwpan y Byd, yn ogystal â sicrhau buddugoliaeth arall i Real Madrid yng Nghynghrair y Pencampwyr. Yn ychwanegol at ddwy wobr unigol uchaf FIFA ac UEFA, cipiodd Modric y Ballon d’or-, y cyntaf ers degawd i wneud hynny nad oedd yn Cristiano Ronaldo neu Lionel Messi. Mae’r gydnabyddiaeth hon yn dyst i’w gyfraniad ysbrydoledig i dîm Croatia yn ystod ei yrfa, ac i’r ffaith iddo arwain y tîm i ddod o fewn gafael i’r wobr fwyaf mawreddog yn y byd.

“Mae’n sicr mai ef yw’r chwaraewr gorau erioed yng Nghroatia”, ychwanegodd Islamović. “Bydd ef ar y brig am yn hir eto. Cofiaf y tro hwnnw y teithiais o gwmpas y byd wedi’r llwyddiant ym 1998, roedd pawb yn adnabod Davor Šuker. Ond nawr, camp Modrić sy’n enwog. Hyd at heddiw mae’r enw Davor Šuker yn ennyn parch aruthrol, ond rwy’n siŵr y bydd yr enw Luka Modrić yn parhau i wneud argraff dda ar gefnogwyr pêl-droed y dyfodol. Mae ei enw ymhlith cewri pêl-droed y byd. Yng Nghroatia, bydd ei enw’n parhau’n adnabyddus am gyfnod hir iawn.”

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VELINDRE - WALES’ PREMIER CANCER CENTRE - PROVIDING CARE, SUPPORT AND TREATMENT TO CANCER PATIENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES FOR OVER 60 YEARS, WERE THRILLED TO REVEAL EARLIER THIS YEAR THAT GARETH BALE HAD AGREED TO BECOME A PATRON FOR THE WORLD-RENOWNED CARDIFF-BASED CENTRE.

Announcing the news on his Twitter feed, Gareth tweeted: “Delighted to announce that I have accepted an invitation to be a patron of Velindre Cancer Centre, please give them a follow @Velindre.” Velindre, the Hospital of Hope is the major provider of radiotherapy and other specialised anti-cancer treatments in Wales. Velindre staff strive every day to deliver the best cancer services through exceptional care. Survival rates have doubled in the last 40 years through better treatments and earlier detection. On your way into tonight’s game you may have noticed Velindre volunteers collecting on behalf of Velindre. Donations to Velindre are used to fund things over and above those provided by the NHS, so fundraising really does make a huge difference to patients and their families. If you missed the bucketeers you can still donate:

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/walesvcroatia2019

O U R C H A R I T Y P A R T N E R S

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U21s GET QUALIFICATION CAMPAIGN UNDERWAY WITH BELGIUM WIN

New manager Paul Bodin began his tenure with the Cymru U21 team with a superb performance and an impressive 1-0 win against Belgium in the opening fixture of the Group 9 qualifying campaign at the Racecourse last month. Debutant Brennan Johnson handed the side a dream start to the fixture with a fine finish to put Wales 1-0 ahead inside the opening few minutes, and the lead could have been extended with Regan Poole, Mark Harris and Dan Mooney all have further chances before half-time. But goalkeeper George Ratcliffe had to be at his best at the other end of the field to deny Lois Openda, and pulled off a string of further fine saves in the second half as Bodin’s side held on for the perfect start to the campaign.

However, the side were taught a lesson against 2019 U21 finalists Germany at the Racecourse a few days later, as the visitors claimed a convincing 5-1 victory to make their intentions for the group clear. Despite the eventual scoreline, Wales did match their opponents early on, and it was Johnson who almost put his side ahead after 17 minutes. However, German striker Robin Hack scored a quick hat-trick over the course of the next 20 minutes, and Johannes Eggestein made it 4-0 before half-time. A penalty offered Wales hope and Harris made no mistake from the spot following the restart, but Germany soon restored their advantage when Adrian Fein completed the scoring minutes later. Bodin’s side travelled to Moldova for their third match two days ago, and now face Bosnia and Herzegovina at the Racecourse next month.

DECHRAU DELFRYDOL I YMGYRCH RAGBROFOL DAN 21 GYDA BUDDUGOLIAETH YN ERBYN GWLAD BELG

Dechreuodd y rheolwr newydd Paul Bodin ei gyfnod wrth y llyw gyda thîm Dan 21 Cymru gyda pherfformiad gwych a buddugoliaeth drawiadol 1-0 yn erbyn Gwlad Belg yng ngêm agoriadol ymgyrch ragbrofol Grŵp 9 ar y Cae Ras fid yn ôl. Diolch i Brennan Johnson, a oedd yn chwarae ei gêm gyntaf i’r tîm, cafodd Cymru y dechrau gorau posibl gan fynd ar y blaen 1-0 yn y munudau agoriadol. Gallai Regan Poole, Mark Harris a Dan Mooney oll fod wedi ymestyn y fantais gyda chyfleoedd pellach cyn hanner amser. Ond roedd gofyn i’r gôl-geidwad George Ratcliffe fod ar ei orau ym mhen arall y cae er mwyn arall Lois Openda, a llwyddodd i gyflawni cyfres o arbedion gwych yn yr ail hanner wrth i dîm Bodin ddal ymlaen i sicrhau dechrau delfrydol i’r ymgyrch.

Er hynny, dysgwyd gwers i’r tîm yn erbyn yr Almaen ar y Cae Ras ychydig ddyddiau yn ddiweddarach, wrth i’r ymwelwyr hawlio buddugoliaeth gadarn 5-1 a gwneud eu bwriad ar gyfer y grŵp yn glir. Er gwaethaf y sgôr derfynol, roedd Cymru llawn cystal â’u gwrthwynebwyr yn gynnar yn y gêm, a bron i Johnson roi Cymru ar y blaen wedi 17 munud. Ond fe sgoriodd ymosodwr yr Almaen, Robin Hack, hatric cyflym dros yr 20 munud nesaf, a sgoriodd Johannes Eggestein i’w gwneud hi’n 4-0 cyn hanner amser. Daeth cic gosb i gynnig gobaith i Gymru, a doedd dim dwywaith y byddai Harris yn sgorio o’r smotyn, ond doedd dim o dro cyn i’r Almaen sgorio eto wrth i Adrian Fein ganfod cefn y rhwyd funudau’n ddiweddarach. Teithiodd tîm Bodin i Moldofa ar gyfer eu trydedd gêm ddeuddydd yn ôl, a byddant yn wynebu Bosnia a Herzegovina ar y Cae Ras fis nesaf.

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BARRY TOWN UNITED ARE THE EARLY HEADLINE MAKERS ACROSS THE JD CYMRU LEAGUES AS GAVIN CHESTERFIELD’S SIDE EXTENDED THEIR LEAD AT THE TOP OF THE JD CYMRU PREMIER WITH A 1-0 VICTORY AWAY TO CHAMPIONS THE NEW SAINTS A FORTNIGHT AGO.

Evan Press was the goalscoring hero on the day, but Chesterfield believes it’s far too early for title talk at Jenner Park. “I couldn’t tell you what the table looks like,” explained the manager. “The teams at the bottom are capable of putting a few wins together as much as the teams at the top are capable of losing or drawing a few, so I tend to stay away until after ten games. I wouldn’t have a clue where anyone is, I promise. I know we’re top because people keep telling me, but ahead of who and by how many points I have no idea!”

Meanwhile, Neil Gibson’s Prestatyn Town are making a big impression on the JD Cymru North, and made their intentions of a return to the top-flight clear recently with a convincing 7-0 victory over Bangor City. It was a busy summer at Bastion Gardens and the rewards have been immediately apparent. Elsewhere in the division, Colwyn Bay are still finding their feet in the Welsh pyramid system and sit in mid-table following a mixed bag of early results, while former JD Cymru Premier side Porthmadog are struggling to rediscover former glory as they look to move away from the relegation zone.

But while Prestatyn Town open up a convincing lead in the north of the country, things are a lot more competitive in the JD Cymru South, with Swansea University, Llanelli, STM Sports, Haverfordwest County and Ammanford all pushing for top spot. Surprise package STM Sports claimed a significant 4-1 win away to Haverfordwest County a couple of weeks ago to show their credentials, while Swansea University have also made a big impression having

only been promoted last season. Ammanford have boosted their attendances with the arrival of former Swansea City duo Lee Trundle and Andy Robinson, and their results have so far largely mirrored their ambition.

In the Orchard Welsh Premier Women’s League, Swansea City claimed one of the results of the season in their opening game of the season as they defeated champions Cardiff Met 1-0 thanks to a solitary goal from Stacey John-Davies. Cardiff Met did the treble last season and remained undefeated in all domestic competitions, and continued their form in the UEFA Women’s Champions League by recording the best results of any Welsh club in the history of the competition. However, Swansea City are desperate to return to the European stage, and their early advantage means there could be a fascinating title race ahead.

TÎM BARRY TOWN UNITED SY’N CIPIO’R PENAWDAU CYCHWYNNOL AR DRAWS CYNGHREIRIAU JD CYMRU WRTH I DÎM GAVIN CHESTERFIELD YMESTYN EU MANTAIS AR FRIG UWCH GYNGHRAIR JD CYMRU GYDA BUDDUGOLIAETH 1-0 ODDI CARTREF I’R PENCAMPWYR PRESENNOL, Y SEINTIAU NEWYDD, BYTHEFNOS YN ÔL.

Evan Press oedd yr arwr a sgoriodd ar y diwrnod, ond yn ôl Chesterfield, mae hi’n llawer rhy gynnar i siarad am gipio’r gynghrair. “Fyswn i ddim yn gallu dweud wrthoch chi sut mae’r tabl yn edrych,” eglurodd y rheolwr. “Mae’r timau ar y gwaelod yr un mor debygol o sicrhau sawl buddugoliaeth ag y mae’r timau ar y brig o golli gemau, felly rydw i’n dueddol o beidio â chymryd llawer o sylw tan ar ôl deg gêm. Does gen i ddim clem lle mae unrhyw un, addo! Rydw i’n gwybod mai ni sydd ar y brig gan fod pawb yn dweud wrtha’ i o hyd, ond o flaen pwy ac o sawl pwynt does gen i ddim syniad!”

Yn y cyfamser, mae tîm Prestatyn Neil Gibson yn gwneud cryn dipyn o argraff ar JD Cymru y Gogledd gan wneud eu

bwriad i ddychwelyd i’r gynghrair uwch yn glir gyda buddugoliaeth gadarn 7-0 dros Ddinas Bangor. Roedd hi’n haf prysur yn Bastion Gardens ac mae hynny wedi dwyn ffrwyth yn syth bin. O ran y timau eraill, mae Bae Colwyn yn dal i addasu i’r system byramid newydd a dal yng nghanol y tabl ar ôl cyfres o ganlyniadau cynnar cymysg, tra bo Porthmadog, o Uwch Gynghrair Cymru JD gynt, yn cael trafferth ail-ddarganfod gogoniant y gorffennol wrth iddynt geisio dianc o waelodion y tabl.

Ond tra bo Prestatyn yn agor cryn dipyn o fwlch ar frig y tabl yn y gogledd, mae pethau llawer agosach yn JD Cymru’r De gyda Phrifysgol Abertawe, Llanelli, STM Sports, Hwlffordd a Rhydaman oll yn gwthio i gyrraedd y brig. Er syndod i lawer llwyddodd STM Sports i sicrhau buddugoliaeth 4-1 sylweddol oddi cartref i Hwlffordd cwpl o wythnosau’n ôl a dangos i bawb eu bod yn cyrraedd y safon, ac mae Prifysgol Abertawe hefyd wedi gwneud cryn argraff er eu bod nhw’n newydd i’r gynghrair y tymor hwn. Mae Rhydaman wedi gweld cryn hwb yn eu cynulleidfa wrth groesawu cyn chwaraewyr Dinas Abertawe Lee Trundle ac Andy Robinson i’w plith, a hyd yn hyn mae eu canlyniadau wedi adlewyrchu eu dyhead.

Yn Uwch Gynghrair Merched Cymru Orchard, hawliodd Abertawe un o ganlyniadau gorau’r tymor yn eu gêm agoriadol wrth drechu’r pencampwyr, Met Caerdydd, 1-0 diolch i gôl gan Stacey John-Davies. Llwyddodd Met Caerdydd i fachu’r trebl y tymor diwethaf heb golli’r un gêm mewn unrhyw gystadleuaeth ddomestig. Parhau a wnaeth y perfformiad hwnnw yng Ngynghrair y Pencmpwyr Merched UEFA wrth iddynt sicrhau’r canlyniadau gorau erioed i unrhyw glwb o Gymru yn hanes y gystadleuaeth. Er hynny, mae Abertawe ar dân eisiau dychwelyd i’r llwyfan Ewropeaidd ac mae eu mantais gynnar yn golygu y gallwn edrych ymlaen at gystadlu brwd a hynod ddiddorol am goron y gynghrair y tymor hwn.

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THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF WALES / CYMDEITHAS BÊL-DROED CYMRU

Patron / Noddwr: H.M The Queen

President / Llywydd: Mr K O’Connor

Vice Presidents / Is-Llywyddion:Mr M Jones, Mr S Williams

Honorary Treasurer / Trysorydd Anrhydeddus: Mr P Woosnam

Life Vice Presidents / Is-Iywyddion Oes: Mr B Fear BEM, Mr D Griffiths,

Mr T Lloyd-Hughes MBE, Mr P Pritchard, Mr P Rees

Life Councillors / Cynghorwyr Oes:Mr R Bridges, Mr D A Jones,

Mr K Hughes, Mr P A Jones, Mr K Tucker, Mr R Waygood, Mr C Whitley,

Mr I F Williams

Council / Y Cyngor: Mr M Adams,Mr D Cole, Mr N Dymock, Mr V Edwards,

Mr G Evans, Mr D Fawkes, Mr J Harris, Mr D James, Mr L James, Mr D H Jones,

Mr S Lawrence, Mr S Newport,Mr R Paton, Mr M Price, Mr C Richards,

Mr C Rowland, Mrs G Powell,Mr A Watkins, Mr I Williams,

Mr W L Williams MBE

FC CYMRU CONTRIBUTORSEditor: Rob Dowling

Senior Reporter: Mark Pitman Contributors: Jonathan Ford,

Kieran O’ConnorPhotography: David Rawcliffe

(Propaganda), Nikitas Mesney,Rhys Skinner, UEFA

Design: Designroom Sport

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WATCH THE LATEST EPISODE OF FC CYMRU – THE WEBSHOW THAT BRINGS YOU FEATURES ON ALL ASPECTS OF FOOTBALL THROUGHOUT WALES.

36 www.faw.cymru

H E A D L I N E M A K E R SF I R S T I M P R E S S I O N S C O U N T

B A C H U ’ R P E N A W D A U G Y D A ’ R A R G R A F F G Y N T A F

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CYMRU STARS AARON RAMSEY, HARRY WILSON AND DANIEL JAMES ARE THREE PLAYERS WHO HAVE MADE POSITIVE HEADLINES FOR THEIR NEW CLUBS ALREADY THIS SEASON FOLLOWING SIGNIFICANT SUMMER MOVES.

Wilson and James have carried their Championship form into the English Premier League with Bournemouth and Manchester United respectively, while Aaron Ramsey has already settled into the Italian life both on and off the field in Turin with Juventus.

James arrived at Old Trafford from Swansea City, and while many English Premier League pundits considered him to be one for the future, he has shown that he is clearly one for the present with a string of impressive goals in the colours of his new club. Meanwhile, Wilson showed his new fans on the south coast exactly what he is capable of with a trademark free-kick against champions Manchester City in August. Likewise, following a cameo appearance in the UEFA Champions League for his debut, Ramsey marked his first start for Juventus in Serie A with his first goal.

Comparisons with John Charles have been inevitable since Ramsey confirmed he would be heading for Turin, and he mirrored the former Juventus and Wales hero by scoring in the 2-1 victory against Verona. It was on 8th September 1957 that Charles achieved the exact same

feat against the same opposition. Cristiano Ronaldo played alongside Wales manager Ryan Giggs at Manchester United and Gareth Bale at Real Madrid, and while their relationship is still in its early stages, his partnership with Ramsey could prove to be just as effective.

Meanwhile, there is an increasing Welsh influence in the German pyramid system, with James Lawrence and Ethan Ampadu both making loan moves to FC St. Pauli and RB Liepzig from Anderlecht and Chelsea respectively. Rabbi Matondo is also playing his club football in Germany with Schalke 04 following his permanent switch from Manchester City to the Bundesliga back in January. MAE SÊR CYMRU AARON RAMSEY, HARRY WILSON A DANIEL JAMES YN DRI CHWARAEWR SY’N WEDI HAWLIO PENAWDAU POSITIF I’W CLYBIAU NEWYDD YN BAROD Y TYMOR HWN AR ÔL TROSGLWYDDIADAU SYLWEDDOL DROS YR HAF.

Mae Wilson a James wedi parhau â’r perfformiadau yn y Championship yn Uwch Gynghrair Lloegr gyda Bournemouth a Manchester United (yn y drefn honno), tra bo Aaron Ramsey eisoes yn gwneud ei hun yn gartrefol yn yr Eidal ar y cae, ac oddi arno, yn Turin gyda Juventus.

Cyrhaeddodd James yn Old Trafford o Abertawe ac er bod llawer o’r pyndits pêl-droed wedi rhagweld ei fod yn

dalent i gadw llygad arno ar gyfer y dyfodol, mae wedi dangos yn glir ei fod yn dalent y presennol gyda chyfres o goliau trawiadol yn ei liwiau newydd. Yn y cyfamser, mae Wilson wedi dangos i’w gefnogwyr newydd ar arfordir Lloegr cystal yw ei ddoniau gydag un o’i giciau rhydd arbennig yn erbyn y pencampwyr, Manchester City ym mis Awst. Yn yr un modd, yn dilyn ymddangosiad byr yng Nghynghrair y Pencampwyr ar gyfer ei gêm gyntaf, llwyddodd Ramsey i nodi ei ddechreuad cyntaf i Juventus yn Serie A gyda’i gôl gyntaf.

Mae’r cymariaethau â John Charles yn anochel ers i Ramsey gadarnhau y byddai’n ymuno â’r tîm o Turin, a llwyddodd i efelychu cyn arwr Juventus a Chymru gan sgorio yn y fuddugoliaeth 2-1 yn erbyn Verona. Ar 8 Medi 1957 y llwyddodd Charles yr un gamp yn union yn erbyn yr un gwrthwynebwyr. Chwaraeodd Cristiano Ronaldo yn erbyn rheolwr Cymru, Ryan Giggs, yn Manchester United a Gareth Bale yn Real Madrid, ac er bod eu perthynas megis dechrau, gallai ei bartneriaeth â Ramsey brofi i fod yr un mor effeithiol.

Yn y cyfamser, mae dylanwad Cymru ar system byramid yr Almaen yn cynyddu, gyda James Lawrence ac Ethan Ampadu ill dau yn symud ar fenthyg i FC St. Pauli a RB Liepzig o Anderlecht a Chelsea. Mae Rabbi Matondo hefyd yn ennill ei fara menyn yn yr Almaen gyda Schalke 04 ar ôl symud yn barhaol o Manchester City i’r Bundesliga yn ôl mis Ionawr.

AYAH ABDULDAIM IS A REMARKABLE

19 YEAR-OLD FROM WALES WHO IS

ENCOURAGING GIRLS FROM BLACK, ASIAN

AND MINORITY ETHNIC COMMUNITIES

(BAME) TO PLAY FOOTBALL.

It is down to Ayah that girls aged 14-16 regularly turn up for Monday night training in the Grangetown area of Cardiff. “In my community, girls don’t come to stuff if the parents don’t know who is involved,” explains Ayah. “But they come to my sessions because I’m a familiar face and people trust me. The parents know that the girls will be able to play in their jogger bottoms, a long top and a scarf if they want to.”

Ayah – who is Muslim - has just started a Sports Science degree at Cardiff Metropolitan University and she can’t quite believe how far she has come. At 11, she moved to Cardiff from Libya and was thrust into secondary school hardly able to speak any English. “I love football, I grew up playing football in Libya with my boy cousins. And, after moving here, I found the way I could communicate was through sport. Any club at school, you name it – I was doing it. I was able to relate to my team-mates through sport – I didn’t need language. And sport and football grew with me. I went on to play for Cardiff City FC Ladies and it felt good. When I saw the coaches, I knew what I wanted to do.”

Grange Gardens has become the heart of the community ever since the installation of the maxi-pitch was funded by the UEFA Grassroots Programme and the FAW, in partnership with Cardiff City Council. The pitch, which opened ahead of the Champions

League Final in 2017, was designed to boost physical activity among residents, local families, children and adults and to inspire more local youngsters to take up the sport. “The opening of the pitch was a really big thing in the community,” explained Ayah. “We never have stuff like that. There were so many kids there all the time, we had to organise so many tournaments! It’s still really packed.It has made a huge difference. It’s just what I do. The girls come for fun or sometimes they need a chat if they’re having issues at school, or with their friends.”

Big things await Ayah as she starts her degree and she remains fiercely ambitious for women in sport and her community. “Ayah is an incredible ambassador for our sport within her community and it is an honour having her involved in our football family,” explained Katy Evans of the FAW Trust. “The number of girls she has coming along to her sessions is down to her positive attitude and commitment to helping more girls become active through sport. We know that teenager girls are the hardest group to engage with so it is reassuring to see 20-25 girls participating weekly because of Ayah. We would love to run similar projects at other locations across Wales to encourage more girls from BAME communities to play.”

Check out BeFootball.Cymru.

I N S P I R A T I O N A L A Y A H

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