Nottingham Forest star Neco Williams helped Wales secure their first point at a World Cup for 64 years. The 1-1 draw with the USA saw the 21-year-old start against a backdrop of devastation and heartache. After the game, he received heartfelt wishes from Dejan Lovren and Harvey Elliott.
Williams has been in Qatar with Wales for around a week, preparing for the World Cup. On Monday night, however, he revealed that his mum called him to inform him that his grandad had passed away.
Despite that, the youngster was determined to play. He started the game in Rob Page’s team, playing as the left-back and throughout his time on the pitch he gave his all considering the mentally tough 24 hours he’d experienced.
Williams was replaced late in the game by Forest teammate Brennan Johnson. It was the youngster who seemed to turn the game in Wales’ favour, taking a quick throw-in that saw Gareth Bale eventually fouled.
Despite not being on the field when Wales equalised, Williams deserves immense credit. It would have been easy for him to ask Page to be left out of his team for the World Cup opener but he did his grandad proud.
Wales now look on course to make a genuine fist of qualifying for Group B. They will face Iran next, before facing England in the final game of the group stages in what promises to be an amazing occasion.
Williams received heartfelt wishes from Liverpool star and Lovren
The Forest fan base have sent messages of support to Williams too. It’s quite something to see the Reds community rally around one of their own stars at a time when they desperately need support.
After last night’s game, Williams informed his followers of his devastating news from the day before. In the aftermath of his post, he received messages from Liverpool stars of past and present.
Elliott has played against Williams this season and he responded: “Made him proud my bro! Keep strong.”
Lovren hasn’t been at Liverpool for a few years now and he also sent a message to Williams, which read: “He is definitely proud of you. Well done yesterday.
Williams has a serious support network around him. He will aim to help Wales progress in the World Cup but either way, he has made his grandad and his entire family proud to date.
We’re all with you, Neco!