Gareth Bale has emerged as the standout player once again for Wales by netting a penalty to give his nation a 1-0 lead against Croatia at half time.

The Welsh side started strongly thanks to the Tottenham Hotspur star, who won a free kick outside of the box after storming past three players following a 30-yard run.

The 23-year-old soared his effort over the bar, which left Croatia with the chance to launch an attack from their half of the field.

The visiting side almost found the breakthrough via Sammir, who latched onto a pass from Eduardo, who was found in the area from a threaded ball courtesy of Mario Mandzukic.

Sammir's effort was deflected behind the goal, and they were punished minutes later when Joseph Ledley played a one-two with Ashley Williams before nipping round Dejan Lovren, who brought the Welshman down in the penalty area.

The referee pointed to the spot, which Bale hovered over to take the penalty and blast Wales into the lead.

Towards the close of the first half, Mandzukic had a chance to equalise, but he shot wide after freeing himself away from James Collins, leaving Croatia trailing at half time.