Gareth Bale is taking a trip to memory lane as he recalled the teases from club teammates ahead of the semi-final clash between Wales and Portugal on early Thursday morning.
Five major tournaments has passed by in Bale’s first 10 years of his career, but Wales has managed to end the 58-year wait to compete in the international stage and he is ready to make up for lost time.
Chris Coleman’s side made a stunning achievement as championship debutants by advancing to the semi-finals in France and this has given Bale a reason to recall the jibes he received from club teammates.
“I got teased quite often during that period,” said the Real Madrid winger. “We always lost at that time and we were sitting at the 100th spot in terms of world ranking. We have nine weeks of summer break instead of two.”
“It feels great to be playing in a major tournament, and I’m happy to be a part of it.”
If Bale and co. reach the final, he might face German midfielder Toni Kroos, his teammate in Real who have looked down upon Wales before the start of the tournament.
“I still remember that he said we’ll only have three matches to play, so it’ll be nice to meet him in the final,” said Bale.
“It’s all laughs and banter for us, but we have surpassed everyone’s expectations. We know that and we are enjoying it now.”
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