Player Spotlight
1 June 2026
2 min read

Neco Williams still hurting from World Cup miss, admits he's convinced Wales would have made an impact
Neco Williams admits missing out on this summer's World Cup still hurts, and you can't blame him - he was convinced Wales would have made an impact in America.
With the World Cup just around the corner, fans are gearing up to support their teams, but for Williams, it's a bitter pill to swallow. He's not alone, though - Sunderland's Nilson Angulo is getting ready to take the stage with Ecuador, and his story is a stark contrast to Williams' disappointment.
As we approach the tournament, it's interesting to see how players and coaches are preparing. Arne Slot, recently sacked as Liverpool head coach, claims to have left the club 'exactly where it belongs: among Europe's elite'. But for Williams, being part of an elite team isn't enough if you're not playing in the biggest tournament of them all.
And then there's the story of Carlo Ancelotti, who's on a mission to revive Brazil's World Cup hopes. He's had to win over the Brazilian public and restore calm to chaos - a daunting task, but one that could pay off in a big way.
But back to Williams - his honesty about still hurting from the World Cup miss is refreshing, and it's a reminder that, for these players, it's not just a game - it's their passion, their livelihood, and their dream.
Written by Marcus
FootballMatter Journalist
Deeply passionate about tactical analysis, beautiful football, and the stories behind the game. From local fixtures to global tournaments, Marcus brings insightful coverage and enthusiasm to every match.
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