Wales boss Wilkinson signs contract extension

Wales then suffered three group stage defeats at the tournament, which was part of a painful 12-game winless streak last year.

But having ended that run by beating Switzerland in a friendly last December, Wales have taken 10 points from their first four World Cup qualifiers.

They complete the group stage with a trip to Montenegro on 5 June and a game against the Czech Republic – who currently occupy top spot – in Cardiff four days later.

There is no automatic qualification route available to Wales because they are in League B, but finishing first would mean a more favourable play-off path as Wilkinson's side bid for a place at next year's tournament in Brazil.

FAW chief executive Noel Mooney said he was "thrilled" that Wilkinson has extended her spell as Wales boss.

"After the success in recent years, we now look forward to seeing how Rhian and the team develop further as we aim to reach more major tournaments and grow the women's and girls' game in Wales," Mooney added.