World Cup 2022: Wales captain Gareth Bale says team driven by 'hurt' in Austria play-off

Wales will use the «hurt» of previous near misses as inspiration for their World Cup play-off semi-final against Austria on Thursday, says Gareth Bale.

Wales have not qualified for a World Cup since 1958 and been agonisingly close on several occasions since.

Captain Bale, 32, will use some of his own such experiences — such as 2017's loss to the Republic of Ireland — as part of his team talk against Austria.

«We have to give 100% and have no regrets,» he said.

«We can draw on past experiences that have hurt us but also the excitement of what potentially is ahead, so there is a lot to play for.

»You can look to anything to help inspire us and there will not be a lot that needs to be said, a game of this magnitude speaks for itself and we'll be ready to go tomorrow."

At the start of this campaign a year ago, Bale said this could be his last chance to qualify for a World Cup.

The Real Madrid forward has enjoyed a glittering club career, winning four Champions League titles, two La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey, three Uefa Super Cups and three Club World Cups.

He has also lifted his country to new heights, helping Wales qualify for back-to-back European Championships and firing them to the semi-finals at Euro 2016.

However, a World Cup remains elusive for Bale, who will be approaching his 37th birthday when the 2026 tournament starts.

«I wouldn't say it would be a regret if I didn't play in a World Cup as it's not really in my hands but it's something I would love to achieve for myself, my country, the fans of Wales,» he said.

«It's been a long time. It will only be a regret if we don't give 100% and leave anything in the tank.

»Once you've done that there won't be regrets regardless of the result. Hopefully our best will be enough.

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