Lille (France) (AFP) – Wales hero Hal Robson-Kanu put his side’s stunning victory over Belgium in Friday’s Euro 2016 quarter-final down to years of collective hard work.
Robson-Kanu, Ashley Williams and Sam Vokes scored the goals as Chris Coleman’s men came from behind to beat much-fancied Belgium 3-1 in a remarkable game in Lille.
“We are on cloud nine. We have been working for it for many years now and it’s about nights like this where we’ve got rewards and taken our opportunity as a team,” Robson-Kanu said.
The striker received the man of the match award after a fine display capped by a superb individual effort that put Wales 2-1 up early in the second half.
His efforts were made all the more remarkable as the goal came just a day after his contract with English second-tier side Reading expired, making him a free agent.
Describing his goal, he said: “The ball’s come into my feet, I managed to turn in the box and put it in the back of net.
“As for my club situation, I’ve been at Reading for 12 years. I’ve given them a lot of service and been very loyal, but I decided to run my contract down and have my future in my own hands.”
Wales are into a major tournament semi-final for the first time, but Robson-Kanu said now was not the moment for any big celebrations.
“It’s quite a quick turnaround. Obviously we are all on cloud nine but we are professionals and we have another game. We will enjoy the night and then begin preparations for our next game tomorrow.”
Wales face Portugal in the semi-final next Wednesday in Lyon in a clash that will pit Gareth Bale against his Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.
