Gareth Bale sprinkled his Gareth Bale magic all over Wales 2-1 win over Cyprus on Monday, with this magnificent assist for Hal Robson-Kanu being the literal highlight— a one-touch, no-look, back-heel that split the Cypriot defense.
Bale’s contribution is made all the more impressive by the fact that he was the most-fouled player on the pitch—being taken down five times—and even gets a kick from a Cypriot defender after this one, quick touch. You can actually see Bale hopping in a circle of pain as he watches Robson-Kanu stride on to that through ball to nutmeg the keeper.
Wales are now top of Euro 2016 qualifying Group B, and on course to qualify for a major tournament for the first time since the 1958 World Cup. Moments like Bale’s above are exactly why I hope they make it. But don’t make me choose between Wales and Iceland, because right now I can’t pick Bale’s brilliance and Iceland’s magnificently choreographed post-match celebrations.