Wales qualify for Euro 2016

Wales have qualified for Euro 2016 despite a 2-0 defeat against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Cyprus' 2-1 victory over Israel meant that no side can catch Wales in second place in Group B.

Chris Coleman’s side will take part in their first ever European Championship, 48 years after their only previous appearance at a major tournament, the 1958 World Cup.

There have been several near misses since then, including a playoff defeat to Russia in their attempts to get to Euro 2004, but Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey will get to experience something Ryan Giggs, Ian Rush and Mark Hughes never did – a major international tournament with Wales.

Bale was the key figure in Wales’ march to France, scoring six goals including crucial winners against Cyprus, Belgium and Andorra.

Almost as crucial has been the obdurate defence of Ashley Williams and company. Prior to the Bosnia match they had conceded just two goals, a record for all the teams in the Euro 2016 hunt.

Wales join Northern Ireland and England in December’s draw. Republic of Ireland will have a chance to join them if they win or score two or more and draw against Poland tomorrow.