Euro 2016: Wales shocks world with semi-final qualification

Cardiff erupted in joyous celebration as Wales defied the odds to reach the semi-finals of Euro 2016 after overcoming one of the favourites Belgium 3-1.

The country had not qualified for a major tournament for nearly 60 years.

The French town Lille – where it all took place – is bound to become enshrined in Welsh football folklore.

Supporters were ecstatic: “Absolutely amazing. We can’t wait for the final. We will be in the final,” shouted Jessica Elliott.

“Absolutely fantastic. Can’t wait now for Portugal,” Samuel Powell added.

Some Belgian supporters were too lost in their own thoughts to react.

In Brussels they watched dumbstruck as a promising early lead evaporated.

A sloppy goal, a brilliant goal, and a final nail in the coffin five minutes from the end sunk their hopes as the unfancied Welsh swept their team away.

“Very disappointed. Frankly, the team was set to go far and we really ruined it,” said Laurent. There was laughter as friends pretended to wipe away a tear with a Belgian flag.

“Seriously, we all believed after the first goal, then we sat back, and that was it,” he added.