Wilkinson says Wales have taken valuable lessons from Euro 2025, a tournament where they struggled to make headway against three elite sides — the Netherlands, France and England.
“We all came away wiser from the Euros — myself, the staff and the players,” she said.
“Would I coach some parts differently? Definitely. And I’m sure the players also think about the what-ifs.”
“You only truly understand a major tournament once you’ve been there — the pressure and the stress are hard to replicate.”
“We talked about it and prepared for it, and it still hit us, but there’s confidence that comes from having gone through it.”
“I also look back at our last Nations League A run — two draws with Sweden and competitive games against other top nations.”
Wales must raise their away form if they are to navigate the play-offs and reach Brazil.
Wilkinson’s side were dominant at home in qualifying, thumping Montenegro 6-1, easing past Albania 4-0 and sealing the group with a 3-1 win over the Czech Republic.
Away from home, they were fortunate to snatch a draw in the opening game against the Czechs in March, edged Albania 1-0, and were held to a surprise 1-1 in Montenegro in the penultimate fixture.
“We were a bit frustrated with our away performance in Albania [in April], but this is a good chance to step up against a challenging opponent,” said Wilkinson.
“I thought Albania were excellent in that second leg, so they’ll be tough. It’ll be a proper tactical battle — a test of who’s learned more.”
“It was clear from our campaign that our away form wasn’t where we wanted it. There’s definitely work to do on the road.”