A fantastic display by Wales midfielder Aaron Ramsey provided the platform for his country as they edged Northern Ireland 1-0 to book their spot in the Euro 2016 quarter-finals. 

The game was tightly contested in the opening half with neither side able to conjure up any clear-cut chances. Northern Ireland were content to sit back, while Wales sought to dictate the midfield.

According to SASoccermag’s Opta-powered match stats, the sides had just three shots apiece in the first period, while Wales enjoyed 62 percent of the ball. That figure fell to 56 percent in the second-half, however, as Northern Ireland rallied.

In a game of few chances it was the industry of Arsenal star Ramsey that proved the difference in the middle of the park. The Welshman had 31 touches of the ball in the contest, while he completed  20 of his 21 passes.

Ramsey also had a hand in the goal as he slipped the ball out wide for teammate Gareth Bale, whose dangerous cross saw Irish defender Gareth McAuley put the ball into the back of his own net.

The player is likely to be key once again for his side in the quarter-finals.

Photo: Reuters