This match marks North Macedonia’s first home game since the tragedy, and Bellamy hopes football can provide a brief escape for those grappling with loss
Craig Bellamy hopes Wales’ World Cup qualifier against North Macedonia will offer some solace to those mourning the devastating nightclub fire that claimed 59 lives in the Balkan nation.
This match marks North Macedonia’s first home game since the tragedy, and Bellamy hopes football can provide a brief escape for those grappling with loss.
“We haven’t spoken about it, but the players are aware,” Bellamy said. “I want to send my condolences to the families and the people of North Macedonia. It’s hard to talk about football at times like this, but we respect the situation completely.
“We’ve had our own tragedies, and as a country, we understand what they’re going through. I want them to know that everyone in Wales stands with them.
“For just 90 minutes, I hope we and North Macedonia can maybe help take a few minds off what’s happened—just for a little while. Because, in the end, life is what truly matters. We’re just fortunate to play football.”
Wales aims to continue their strong start to World Cup qualifying, but Bellamy expects a different challenge compared to their recent win over Kazakhstan.
“North Macedonia is a different test,” he said. “We knew that going in, so our approach hasn’t changed. We reviewed the last match quickly—there were a lot of positives, but also areas to improve.
“Overall, I’m happy. This is another opportunity for us to grow.”
