Euro 2016: Wales 2-1 Slovakia - How Chris Coleman's players rated

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After ending their 58-year wait to reach a major tournament, Wales started their Euro 2016 campaign in the best possible way.

A Gareth Bale free-kick and a late winner from substitute Hal Robson-Kanu saw Chris Coleman's side earn a 2-1 victory over Slovakia in Group B.

But who were the stand-out performers in Bordeaux? BBC Wales Sport's Dafydd Pritchard gives his ratings.

Danny Ward (goalkeeper) 7

Called in to replace the injured Wayne Hennessey, who was forced out with a back problem, the 22-year-old Liverpool keeper was solid in his first international start, punching well from crosses and making a handful of decent saves.

Chris Gunter (right-back) 7

Coped well with the threat of Slovakia winger Vladimir Weiss and gave Wales some useful width on the right.

James Chester (centre-back) 7

Comfortable on the ball and focused in defence, the West Brom defender played his part in a determined team display.

Ashley Williams (centre-back) 7

The Swansea man led his defence with authority, making timely blocks and interceptions without ever seeming flustered.

Ben Davies (centre-back, man of the match) 8

As well as making a crucial block to deny Marek Hamsik a certain goal in the third minute, the Tottenham defender was excellent as he carried the ball out of defence.

Neil Taylor (left-back) 7

A typically combative display from the Swansea full-back, who stood up to the robust physicality of Slovakia.

David Edwards (midfield) 7

Playing in place of Joe Ledley, who is still regaining match fitness after recovering from a broken leg, the Wolves midfielder grafted and kept the ball well.

Joe Allen (midfielder) 8

Typically industrious at the base of midfield and wise in his use of the ball. A pivotal player for Wales.

Aaron Ramsey (midfielder) 7

Guilty of over-complicating things in the first half, the Arsenal midfielder's ambitious passes and flicks did not come off - but he had a hand in the winning goal.

Jonny Williams (forward) 8

Repaid Chris Coleman's faith with an energetic and brave performance, always looking to run at opposition defenders despite being the target of heavy challenges.

Gareth Bale (forward) 8

His goal was not one of his best free-kicks, but the Real Madrid forward was his usual menacing self on the break despite being marked heavily by his opponents.

Media caption,

Gareth Bale scores opening goal for Wales from free-kick

Substitutes

Hal Robson-Kanu (forward) 8

Bursting with energy when he came on after 71 minutes, Wales' cult hero ran tirelessly and, albeit with some fortune, struck a famous winning goal.

Media caption,

Hal Robson-Kanu scores late winner for Wales

Joe Ledley (midfielder) 7

Given the committed nature of his 20-minute performance, it is difficult to believe the Crystal Palace midfielder broke his leg as recently as 7 May.

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