Wales and Nottingham Forest defender Neco Williams last night helped his nation to a vital World Cup point in their Group B opener, despite learning that his grandfather had tragically passed away just hours before.
The 21-year-old played a key role as Rob Page's XI came behind from a goal to nil to clinch a late draw against USA - showing courage in the face of adversity after mourning his loss throughout the day.
After the game, in which Williams broke down in tears, he took to Instagram to talk of his circumstances.
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He penned: "Yesterday was the toughest news I’ve ever had to face and that was listening to my mum tell me my grandad past away last night. He’s been everywhere around the world to watch me play football from when I first started playing at Liverpool at 6 years old.
"He’d never tell me if I had a good game because he always said I have to get better and better each day and that’s why I am where I am now! So I dedicate this game all to him because I know he’s up there watching down on me very proudly.
"For everyone please cherish you have with loved ones because you never know when it can get taken away from you."
Williams made his 24th Welsh appearance last night, also his first ever in the World Cup - with Wales failing to qualify for the coveted tournament since 1958. He was instrumental to the side's success, putting in a fantastic performance all over the pitch from start to finish.
A stunning Timothy Weah opener in the first half put the Dragons behind, but after a brief reset at half time, Wales came out swinging in the second. Gareth Bale earned and converted a late penalty after being hacked in the box by Walker Zimmerman late on, to put a point on the board for the nation in their first World Cup in 64 years.
They now head into their next fixture with Iran with high hopes.
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