Gareth Bale says luck has not been a factor in Wales challenging for top spot in Euro 2016 qualification.
Wales secured a famous draw against Belgium, World Cup quarter-finalists and a team ranked fourth in the world, in Brussels on Sunday night to maintain their unbeaten record in Group B.
Chris Coleman’s side will head into 2015 in second place in the group after picking up eight points from their first four matches and in confident spirit for their next qualifier away to surprise group leaders Israel at the end of March.
“It’s fantastic for our confidence and something for us to build on,” Bale said after the hard-fought goalless draw at the King Baudouin Stadium.
“It’s all down to our hard work. No luck has been involved.
“I think in previous years we would have definitely caved towards the end.
“We feel we’re getting everything we deserve out there.”
Wales have lost only once in nine games over the last 13 months and Bale believes the spirit and togetherness in the squad is a major factor in that sequence of results.
“We showed what we’re made of and what true team spirit we’ve got,” Bale said.
“I’m massively proud. To come to a team ranked fourth in the world away from home (and draw) is a good achievement.
“It’s fantastic for our confidence and something for us to build on.”
That unity was reflected again on Monday when the entire squad and coaching staff visited the Welsh memorial at Langemark and Artillery Wood cemetery in Flanders to pay their respect to the thousands of Welshmen who died in World War I.
Wales captain Ashley Williams said the players were excited by the buzz that their Euro campaign had created through the whole country.
“The slogan is ‘Together Stronger’ and everyone – the staff, the fans – we are all pulling together and becoming a force really,” Williams said.
“This is the first time I’ve been involved in a Wales team where the whole country is behind us and it’s brilliant.
“The fans have been amazing and I’ve not had a prouder night with Wales.
“It wasn’t that pretty but I’m so proud of the way the team dug in and did a hard job.”
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