WALES WOMEN'S PLANE STRUCK BY LIGHTNING BEFORE MONTENEGRO QUALIFIER

Wales women's national football team travelled to Montenegro for a Women's World Cup qualifier after their charter plane was struck by lightning during the flight. Prolonged electrical storms across the Balkans forced the aircraft to spend approximately one hour circling over Montenegro before the decision was taken to divert to Brindisi in Italy. Numerous lightning flashes were visible from inside the aircraft during that period. The pilot later confirmed to Football Association of Wales staff that the plane had been directly hit.

Wales ultimately reached Montenegro and drew 1-1 with the hosts in Podgorica last Friday. The result means top spot in Women's World Cup qualifying Group B1 remains to be decided. Wales head coach Rhian Wilkinson said the squad had processed the experience ahead of their next fixture, adding that the pilot had assured those on board they were never in danger. Wilkinson acknowledged that the journey would nonetheless remain a vivid memory for the players.

Wales host Czech Republic at Cardiff City Stadium on Tuesday, 9 June, with kick-off at 18:00 BST. The match will determine who leads Group B1. Wilkinson said her players are prepared to perform having come through the disruption of the Montenegro trip. The fixture will be broadcast live on BBC Two Wales and BBC iPlayer, with radio commentary available on BBC Radio Wales and BBC Radio Cymru.