Wales defender Mayzee Davies is channelling the disappointment of missing Euro 2025 through injury into determination to reach the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. The 20-year-old suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) knee injury while on international duty in May 2025, sidelining her for 13 months and forcing her to watch from the sidelines as Wales made their historic first appearance at a major tournament.
Now fully recovered, Davies is focused on ensuring she does not miss out again. Wales face Albania in Shkoder on Friday, 9 October in the opening leg of their World Cup qualifying play-off semi-final, with the return fixture scheduled for 13 October at Parc y Scarlets in Llanelli. The Manchester City defender has already returned to competitive action, featuring in Wales' final two group qualifiers in June against Montenegro and Czech Republic.
How has the injury shaped her outlook?
Davies has been candid about the emotional toll of her recovery. The injury struck just as she was breaking through into the senior squad at 18 years old, heading towards what should have been a career-defining moment.
"It was just so sad for everyone, even in my street, it affected us. I'd just broken through [into the team] and I was 18 going to my first major tournament. It was horrible, and I think everyone close to me felt it."
The rehabilitation process tested her mentally and physically.
"I think once I had the surgery I was literally stuck on the sofa, I couldn't do anything on my own. I was like, how am I ever going to like be a footballer again at this stage?"However, with support from teammates and family, she gradually regained her mobility and confidence.
"But I had good people around me, team-mates, my family, and then it does get better. One day you just wake up and you're like, 'oh, I can start to walk again now'."
What would a World Cup appearance mean to her?
Davies is determined to experience a major tournament with her country.
"I want to get to the World Cup because obviously I missed out last time, so I want to feel what it's like to go to a major tournament with Wales. It does give me that extra motivation. I love playing for Wales and I think we're quite a passionate country anyway."
The prospect of playing in Brazil holds particular significance given her recent journey.
"So I think to play in a World Cup for Wales, obviously in Brazil, it would be amazing. Not just for me and my family, obviously coming off the back of the injury as well, I think it would make it extra special if we got there."
How will Wales cope with their injury crisis?
Wales have been hit by multiple injury withdrawals ahead of the Albania ties, losing several experienced players including Ceri Holland and Hayley Ladd. Additionally, defender Rhiannon Roberts and goalkeeper Poppy Soper have withdrawn from the squad with injuries, further depleting the squad depth.
Despite these setbacks, Davies insists there can be no excuses. Wales are ranked 37 places above Albania in the FIFA world rankings, making this a fixture they must win to progress.
"Obviously this camp we've had a lot of injuries to like more experienced players, the usual faces. But I think everyone in this group now, you have to make sure all the new people feel a part of the team and feel valued."
Head coach Rhian Wilkinson has emphasised the importance of respecting every opponent while maintaining focus on the objective.
"She [Head Coach Rhian Wilkinson] said at the end of the day, we always respect every opponent we come up against. But this is a must-win game and we can't dwell on who's not here. We have to work with who's here now and obviously everyone has their role and we've just got to get the job done."
What is at stake in the Albania tie?
The two-legged semi-final represents a crucial step towards World Cup qualification. The winner will face either Norway or Romania in a two-legged play-off final in December, with victory securing a World Cup place for one of the seven highest-ranked round-two winners. Wales have already demonstrated their superiority over Albania, having beaten them 4-0 at home and 1-0 away during their qualifying group stage earlier in 2026.
Davies' return to international football has been steady since her recovery. UEFA records show she has played two World Cup qualifying matches, totalling 180 minutes, before the play-offs, allowing her to rebuild match fitness and confidence ahead of these crucial fixtures.
Key Facts
- Davies suffered an ACL injury in May 2025 and missed 13 months of action, including Wales' Euro 2025 campaign
- Wales face Albania on 9 October in Shkoder and 13 October in Llanelli in the World Cup qualifying semi-final
- The winner will progress to a December play-off final against either Norway or Romania for a place at the 2027 World Cup in Brazil
- Wales have previously defeated Albania 4-0 and 1-0 in their qualifying group
- Multiple injury withdrawals, including Ceri Holland and Hayley Ladd, have weakened Wales' squad for the tie
