After celebrating the double pack, the penultimate step on the way to the long-awaited World Cup participation, Gareth Bale settled accounts with his critics. Because he only works part-time for Real Madrid with a handsome salary, “Marca” had described him as a “Welsh parasite” before the 2-1 win against Austria. “It’s disgusting. You should be ashamed of yourself,” said the 32-year-old calmly but firmly. “I’m not excited, over.”
Match winner Bale celebrated his fantastic free-kick goal into Kreuzeck (25th) to take the lead. After the shot to make it 2-0 (51st minute), he demonstratively patted the coat of arms with the red dragon on his chest. Did he want to send a message with the jubilation? “No, I don’t need to send a message,” the attacking star replied with a smile. After the final whistle, the Welshman also gave consolation to club colleague David Alaba.
“He showed where his priorities lie”
The criticism from Spain did not subside on Friday. Bale has been accused of faking a back injury before the ‘Clasico’ against Barcelona. Real lost the game on Sunday with 0:4. “Bale. Go. Home. In this order” wrote the newspaper “AS” in a column, alluding to a banner (Wales. Golf. Madrid), next to which the Welshman had once presented himself with a smile. “Real Madrid would be proud of him if it weren’t for the fact that he abandoned the team four days ago,” read the article. Barcelona-based Mundo Deportivo said: “He delivers with Wales. Bale has shown with the national team where his priorities lie.”
Bale has only played five competitive games for Real this season, and his high-paying contract expires at the end of the season. However, he reliably leads his country as captain. In 2016, the biggest success so far was the semi-finals at the European Championship finals premiere, now the second World Cup participation for Wales after the one in 1958 is to follow. The opponent in the play-off final will only be determined in June in the duel between Ukraine and Scotland. Wales enjoy home advantage again in the final.
Source: Nachrichten
