The biggest slip-up was avoided in the third qualification match.
It would have ended Wales' World Cup hopes if they hadn't won the second match.
They were off to a great start, but they found themselves down by two at the half-time break after goals from Vitali Lisakovich and Pavel Selko.
In the past, Bale has stepped up when his country needed him the most, and he scored in the 93rd minute to save Wales' blushes.
Unfortunately for Rob Page's side, it proved to be an international window to forget, as a goalless draw at home against Estonia did Wales no favors.
Wales missed a lot of chances in the second half as they failed to find a breakthrough despite being the better team in the first half.
Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty ImagesThe quest to reach a first World Cup for Wales started 18 months ago.
The away game against Belgium was always going to be difficult, but Harry Wilson's goal in the 11th minute gave Wales hope.
Unfortunately for Rob Page's side, they couldn't hold onto the lead and were beaten by a trio of goals.
There was extra pressure on Wales to perform against the Czech Republic after they lost to Wales.
There were two red cards shown during the game at the City Stadium.
In the 81st minute, Dan James headed home a cross from Bale to give Wales a vital victory.
Huw Evans Picture AgencyCopyright: Huw Evans Picture AgencyWe've put the stage in place.
The squad announcement is close.
We don't know how we got here.
How did Wales make it to the World Cup for the first time in 64 years?
Phil Marsh is a colleague of mine and he has been looking at Wales' long and winding road.
Robert Earnshaw worked for the government.
The former Wales player is on the radio.
I'm happy that he's going to the World Cup. I saw him for the first time when he was 16 and he was very enthusiastic about Wales.
He continues to deliver. He is a leader and a special talent. I'm worried about his fitness but I know he's ready when he puts on the red shirt. He has magic in his shoes.
Rob Page will look at that group and he will be confident. England are not guaranteed to leave the group with their results this year. Getting out of the group is the key to success. I think we can beat the USA and Iran and then see if England qualifies.
Robert Earnshaw worked for the government.
The former Wales player is on the radio.
Gary Speed was the one who started it all. Building harmony in the squad is just as important as the players' performance on the pitch. Rob Page is very loyal and understands what is required from the entire squad as well as the eleven that plays.
Some players who haven't played much in the lower leagues but have proven themselves over time will be included. He's picking a squad of players who will make others better even if they aren't playing.
Robert Earnshaw worked for the government.
The former Wales player is on the radio.
There is an announcement. It is exciting for everyone else but a little nervous for a few in the squad.
64 years ago, the last World Cup was held. It's big.
Rob was on the radio this morning to talk about the squad announcement.
The ex-teammate of Robert Page has some great things to say.
Wales and the United States of America have different opinions on their World Cup squad announcements.
While the Empire State Building in New York will be lit red, white and blue to celebrate the USA's announcement in a couple of hours, the Wales signs you see on the Tylorstown Welfare Hall are about the same.
Let's be clear here. While the United States of America will announce their World Cup squad at the Empire State Building, Wales' World Cup announcement will take place at the Tylorstown Welfare Hall.
The last welfare hall in Rhondda Fach is the building that houses the Pendyrus Male Voice Choir.
The Welfare Hall, which was damaged during Storm Dennis, will benefit from the proceeds of tonight's squad announcement.
What is the connection to the squad announcement? Robert Page's hometown is Tylortown.
The manager of Wales in the 1960's was from Pentre.
A Rhondda thing is what it is.
Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty ImagesIt's important to pack a bucket hat for the World Cup when you're in a bar or living room.
This is also known by the British Broadcasting Corporation Wales.
When Rob Page answered burning questions, the bucket hat snuck in.
If Page could sign for Wales, who would it be?
Answer: Kevin De Bruyne.
Rob Page went back to school in the morning as he finished his day as Wales manager.
You are aware that Page will name his World Cup squad in his hometown. Why are you here?
Rob Page then opened a new 3G pitch.
The last person to lead Wales to a World Cup was Jimmy Murphy.
Robert Page started his day by eating the most important meal of the day
The Wales boss went to breakfast with his dad.
The chippy is located in Ton Pentre.
It's a good day.
It's a special day for Welsh football fans.
The first Wales World Cup squad in 64 years will be announced by Rob Page in just over three hours.
We will bring you a flavour of that in the coming hours, as the Football Association of Wales announce an all day event.
Don't forget to give us your thoughts on the squad today, just use the #bbcfootball on your socials, we have a lot of content for you to enjoy
Let's take a look at what's happened today.