Gareth Bale awarded goal that got Wales to Qatar World Cup finals – despite ball flying in off Yarmolenko
GARETH BALE has been officially awarded the goal which took Wales to their first World Cup since 1958.
The Dragons edged out Ukraine 1-0 in a tense play-off in Cardiff earlier this month.
The decisive first-half strike was originally recorded as an own goal by Andriy Yarmolenko as the ex-West Ham man stooped to inadvertently head in a Bale free-kick.
However a statement from the FA Wales said: “Following a technical review, Gareth Bale has been awarded the winning goal against Ukraine that sent us to the World Cup.
"Llongyfarchiadau ein Capten! (Congratulations to our captain!) Time to celebrate that goal all over again!"
It means Bale – who will play for Los Angeles FC from next month – scored all three of his country’s goals in their two play off games.
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The country’s all-time leading scorer also struck twice in the 2-1 win over Austria in the semi-final back in March.
His tally now stands at 41.
Wales are up against England, Iran and the USA - Bale's new country of residence - in Qatar.
Their eagerly-awaited clash with the Three Lions is on November 29.
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Bale will hope his spell in California will get him in shape for the World Cup.
But if Cardiff have their way he could be heading back to Wales next season.