Arabic version: بيلامي يسعى إلى تحسن ويلز بعد الخسارة أمام البرتغال

According to BBC News, Wales manager Craig Bellamy said he wants more from his side despite their 1-0 Nations League defeat by Portugal in Lisbon. Joao Felix scored the decisive goal with a deflected strike as Portugal began the defence of their Nations League title with a win under new manager Jorge Jesus.

Wales spent long periods under pressure at the Jose Alvalade Stadium, while Cristiano Ronaldo also had an effort ruled out by VAR. Bellamy said his side “had to suffer a lot” and described it as the longest Wales had been in a match without the ball. He added that Wales could have done more in possession, but said he was “beyond proud” of the effort from an injury-hit squad.

The visitors finished strongly and Brennan Johnson and Lewis Koumas both went close to earning a draw. Bellamy noted that several players were unavailable or lacked regular club minutes, but praised the energy and character shown by those involved. Wales were without Harry Wilson, Karl Darlow, Dylan Lawlor, Joe Rodon and Nathan Broadhead through injury.

Wales now have a short turnaround before facing Denmark in Copenhagen on Sunday at 17:00 BST in their second League A fixture. Bellamy said his squad are capable of improving and framed that prospect as a positive. Portugal and Wales are due to meet again in Cardiff in November, and Bellamy said he would welcome another opportunity to face Ronaldo, whom he called one of the greatest players of all generations.