WALES cruised to a stunning 4-1 win over the Republic of Ireland in their UEFA Nations League opener but manager Ryan Giggs and star man Gareth Bale believe they can be even better.

Goals from Bale, Tom Lawrence, Aaron Ramsey and Connor Roberts put Wales in control at the Cardiff City Stadium before substitute Shaun Williams pulled one back for the Irish.

It was an outstanding team performance with youngsters Ethan Ampadu (below), David Brooks and Roberts particularly impressive and there's more to come, according to Giggs and Bale.

"The lads were magnificent, some brilliant goals and great football. I can't be much happier," said Wales boss Giggs on Sky Sports.

"I enjoyed the performance and the goals but you always think you can do better. There were mistakes."

"Ethan is a talented player," he added. "Even more so than that, as a person, he's so balanced and mature for such a young player. He'll be a magnificent player."

Penarth Times:

Bale believes Wales made a real statement in Giggs' first home game as manager.

"We had to put a good performance in, first home game of the new regime," said the Real Madrid star ahead of Sunday's trip to Denmark.

"We wanted to show what we're capable of and make a statement. We're looking to win every game and win the group.

"The manager is trying to stamp his own style on the team. There's a lot to improve on but there's a lot to enjoy."

Ireland manager Martin O'Neill admitted his side were second best.

"We were missing some key players but still well beaten," he said.

"Wales have got some good players. We had a different side out to the one who won here last year.

"We've got a [friendly] game against Poland [on Sunday] - we'll try to utilise the squad if we can. We should try to be braver on the ball.

"Regardless of what division the players play in or their game-time for their club, you have to be ready for the step up."