Wilkinson 'proud' despite Wales' narrow defeat in Italy

Wales boss Rhian Wilkinson says she is a "proud coach," despite Wales losing their opening Nations League match 1-0 to Italy in Monza.

Barbara Bonansea's early header proved the difference at Stadio Brianteo in a contest where Italy were never as firmly in control as many would have expected.

Wales might have even snatched a draw, but saw Angharad James' audacious first half effort strike the upright.

"It's a 1-0 loss and I am annoyed, which is a testament to the team and how well they played," Wilkinson said.

Italy are currently ranked 13th by Fifa, 17 places ahead of Wales and drew with World Cup winners Spain and beat Olympic champions Germany in their previous two matches.

Wilkinson felt her side paid the price for being "too nervous," in the opening 10 minutes when it looked like Italy might run rampant after going 1-0 ahead.

"We weren't caught cold at the beginning, I think we were nervous and we let our fear root us to the spot a bit," she said.

"It took four minutes and a kick in the teeth for us to realise we can play.

"I thought our system worked, our players found great spaces and I'm a proud coach."

Davies can win 100 caps

Mayzee Davies was named Wales' player of the game in Monza

Wilkinson has promised Wales will experiment in the Nations League ahead of their first major finals appearance in the summer at Euro 2025 in Switzerland and was true to her word as 18-year old defender Mayzee Davies was handed a first start, while 17-year old forward Mared Griffiths was handed a debut off the bench.

Davies' performance earned her the player of the match accolade and on a night where Hayley Ladd won her 100th cap for Wales, Wilkinson says Davies can match that feat.

"We gave a first cap to Mared Griffiths and a first start for Mayzee Davies, so there are a lot of positives to take away, but we are frustrated with the score," she added.

"We had a 100th cap from Hayley and I wouldn't be surprised if Mayzee gets 100 caps as well, if not more."

Davies said her debut was "amazing."

"I have been dreaming about my first start for a while," she told Match of the Day Wales.

"It was my first full start for Wales and obviously I am over the moon.

"Obviously we are disappointed about the result, but these are the teams we want to play in preparation for the Euros."