Gareth Bale stars as Wales defeats Slovakia to make history

(CNN) It has been 58 years since Wales last played in a major tournament -- but it was worth the wait in the end.

Hal Robson Kanu's 80th minute strike ensured Wales prevailed 2-1 over Slovakia in its opening game of the 2016 European Championship finals in France.

 

 

Wales, which had taken an early lead through Real Madrid star Gareth Bale, was forced to battle hard with Slovakia drawing level courtesy of Ondrej Duda's solo goal.

But with 10 minutes remaining, Robson-Kanu, on as substitute, reacted quickest to fire the ball home from inside the penalty area and spark wild scenes of celebration in Bordeaux.

 

Robson-Kanu celebrates after firing home a late winner for Wales.

Wales faces England in its next match and will be full of confidence after seeing off a Slovakia side which has enjoyed a fine run of form in recent weeks.