Wales flying high on Bale effect

Wales and Real Madrid striker Gareth Bale has made the ongoing Euro 2016 all his own by netting in each of the three games his team has played.

In doing so, Bale has emulated Milan Baros of the Czech Republic and Netherlands' Ruud van Nistelrooy, who had both scored in each of their first three games at Euro 2004.
 

Thanks to Bale's scoring prowess, Wales topped Group 'B', a phenomenal achievement for a team that last participated in a major tournament at the 1958 World Cup.

The 26-year-old scored seven goals in the Euro 2016 qualifying, ending Wales' 58-year wait for top competition football, and also has 22 international goals in 50 caps.

"Bale is a great player," Wales coach Chris Coleman was quoted as saying by a news agency.

Known for his great speed, powerful left foot and exceptional endurance, Bale is being counted on by thousands of Welsh fans to take the team into the business end of the Euro 2016.

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