EURO 2016: WALES & ENGLAND THROUGH TO KNOCKOUT STAGES

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Wales and England are through to the knockout stages of Euro 2016 after the final round of games in Group B. The Welsh beat Russia 3-0 to top the table at their first European Championship, with England finishing second after a 0-0 draw with Slovakia. On Tuesday, Northern Ireland will also look to reach the last 16 when they face Germany in Paris (17:00 BST).

The top two teams in each of the six groups qualify automatically, plus the best four third-placed sides. Chris Coleman’s side – led by the tournament’s top scorer Gareth Bale – destroyed Russia to leapfrog England and reach the knockout stage of a major finals for only the second time in their history. England were frustrated by a resolute Slovakian defence but manager Roy Hodgson also came in for criticism after making six changes, which included the decision to rest captain Wayne Rooney.

Bale, scored his side’s third goal against Russia and also netted in the 2-1 win over Slovakia and 2-1 defeat to England. “We said we didn’t want to make the numbers up,” said the Real Madrid star. “Well, we can’t do any more than win the group. We look forward to seeing who we play next.” Hodgson admitted finishing as runners-up in the group was a “disappointment” but added: “We’re not doomed yet.

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