Mared Griffiths bagged a brace for Wales in their 6-1 thrashing of Montenegro in Saturday’s 2027 World Cup qualifying match, showing a glimpse of the future for Rhian Wilkinson’s side.

A pair of strikes from Hannah Cain, along with Sophie Ingle, Rachel Rowe, and Griffiths’ first, saw Wales face into a 5-0 lead in the first 35 minutes, as the home side flew out of the traps.

After a slightly disappointing 2-2 draw in the Czech Republic last week, this was a chance for Wales to cement their credentials as Group B1’s favourite for top spot, and therefore a place in the qualifying play-offs.

Cain was set away in behind Montenegro’s defence to score the first of Wales’ five first-half goals early on before the Leicester forward squared for Rachel Rowe to sweep home the second.

An error from the visiting goalkeeper allowed teenager Griffiths to tap into an empty net before Sophie Ingle headed in from close range at a corner.

Cain guided in from Lily Woodham’s low cross to make it 5-0 at the break.

Montenegro rallied at halftime, scoring the first goal after the break through Armisa Kuc, but rising star Griffiths had the final say.

The Manchester United youngster rounded off the scoring by rounding Ajsa Kalac in the Montenegro goal, and slotting calmly into the empty net.

Victory sees Wales top of Group B1, ahead of Czech Republic on goal difference.

They host Albania at Cae Ras in Wrexham and travel to Elbasan for the reverse fixture, both games taking place in April.

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