World record points scorer Dan Carter believes Wales are more than capable of beating any side in the world, but need to show more self-belief.
Carter passed Jonny Wilkinson’s previous record of 1,178 points at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday and has been impressed by the Welsh side this autumn.
“Wales have improved over the last couple of weeks and we definitely think they are a top side,” said Carter.
“They showed their passion against us and with more of that self-belief they can beat any team in the world on their day.
“Self-belief is key to beating the southern hemisphere sides and I am sure Wales would have taken a lot from the game against us.
“Wales have got great line speed and were hard to break through. Their tackling was very physical and they held onto the ball for big periods which made it frustrating at times for us.
“They put us under huge pressure for the majority of the match, but we managed to score tries at crucial times.”
A packed crowd in Cardiff was entertained by a thrilling game, with just five points between the sides as the match went into the final quarter.
The world number one ranked side then showed the form that won them the Tri-Nations title this summer, scoring two tries in a clinical six minute period.
“What makes us very proud of our own performance is the way we finished in that last 10 minutes,” added the Canterbury fly-half.
“It just shows the character and self-belief in our team.”
By his own high standards the 28-year-old playmaker had an off-day with the boot but was delighted to break the record.
“I never thought I would get to these highs,” he said.
“It’s something that is pretty special, a real achievement, and I give a lot of tributes to my team-mates for giving me the opportunities to get so many points.
“It’s about the team, and I am just very fortunate to be part of a very special team like this one.
“It was a pretty proud moment. It is not something that really drives me, but looking back it is something I am proud of.”
