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Wales can build something special after Euro 2016 heroics, says Jack Collison

Wales boss Chris Coleman salutes the Welsh fans after defeat to Portugal
Image: Wales boss Chris Coleman salutes the Welsh fans after defeat to Portugal

Former Wales international Jack Collison believes Chris Coleman's side can build something special after their Euro 2016 heroics.

Wales were beaten 2-0 by Portugal in Lyon on Wednesday as Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani each struck to book their team's place in the final, where they will face either Germany or France.

Chris Coleman's side were unable to repeat the heroics of their quarter-final win over Belgium, but Collison feels the future is bright for Welsh football.

Wales players and staff applaud their supporters after defeat by Portugal
Image: Wales players and staff applaud their supporters after defeat by Portugal
Wales Euro 2016 player ratings
Wales Euro 2016 player ratings

Wales tournament ratings: Jack Collison rates players' Euro 2016 performances

"It was a fantastic achievement to get to the tournament, then to qualify from the group and that performance against Belgium in the quarter-final was something special," he told Sky Sports News HQ.

"I think it's a performance the entire country will look back on in the years to come. They will watch that Hal Robson-Kanu goal time and time again and be really proud of what these players have achieved."

Portugal scored twice in three second-half minutes to put the game beyond their opponents, and Collison said a lack of cutting edge in the final third proved the difference.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored one and created another to help knock Wales out
Image: Cristiano Ronaldo scored one and created another to help knock Wales out

"Wales tried so hard, the endeavour, passion and energy was there but they didn't have enough quality at the end of the day," he added.

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"They can take a lot of good points and heart from the tournament, but they will be bitterly disappointed to miss out in the semi-final, having had a real chance of getting to the final and possibly to win the thing.

"Hopefully this is not a one-off for Wales, hopefully they are building something special, can maintain it and keep qualifying for tournaments."

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