Jess Fishlock: Wales in first finals ‘proudest moment’ for veteran

Wales boss Rhian Wilkinson says the achievement will “change everything” for Welsh football.

“This team found a way. They never broke for each other, they stayed strong. I’ve never been prouder of a team,” she said.

“This is a special team. My staff are another level and this team, how they don’t quit… they never do things the easy way.

“This team stands on the shoulder of giants who came before, and now they’ve proven how good they are.

“They’re better than they think and they just have to see it and live it and experience it.

“Those boys and girls back home are seeing a generation of football that’s going to change everything.”

Wales’ goalscorer Cain, who has recovered from two knee surgeries after ACL tears, admits she struggled to contain her emotions.

“Honestly, I’ve got no words. There’s nothing that will ever compare to this feeling,” she said.

“You can see what it means to everyone. I was crying when I scored.

“It’s pretty emotional. I’m glad to be back doing that. I’m not going to lie, I was a bag of nerves. But this is what dreams are made of.”

Former Wales defender Danny Gabbidon believes qualification for a first major tournament can be a seismic moment for sport in Wales.

Gabbidon says the impact of the win can be similar to 2016 when Wales’ men reached the Euros, their first major finals in 58 years.

“It’s amazing. It’s taking me back to 2016 when the lads did it,” he added.

“It’s that same kind of feeling.

“We have had so many disappointments so for us to be in that draw, for little old Wales… we are going to showcase Wales.”