World Cup qualifiers: Ben Davies back to lead Wales for crucial games

World Cup qualifiers: Ben Davies back to lead Wales for crucial games


Burnley defender Connor Roberts, Wrexham goalkeeper Danny Ward and Ipswich Town’s Wes Burns all remain unavailable through injury, as Wales look to find some form at the end of their group campaign.

The 4-2 defeat to Belgium last time out effectively ended automatic qualifying hopes, with Wales now needing to win their remaining fixtures to guarantee runners-up spot in Group J.

Looking to secure home advantage in March’s play-offs for next summer’s finals, Wales travel to the pool’s bottom side Liechtenstein on 15 November before hosting second-placed North Macedonia in Cardiff three days later in what promises to be a crunch encounter.

Ranked 206th in the world, Liechtenstein are yet to register a point – or a goal – from their six games so far. North Macedonia – having played a game more – are currently three points ahead of Wales with a six-goal advantage in goal difference.

Belgium are all but assured of automatic qualification, needing just three points to finish top with games against Kazakhstan and Liechtenstein remaining.

Wales can finish as group runners up by winning both their remaining games.

Alternatively, beating Liechtenstein by six goals or more would mean a draw against North Macedonia in Cardiff would also be enough.

Wales are already guaranteed a play-off place via the Nations League, but must finish second to avoid being among the bottom seeds and the prospect of an away semi-final.

The draw for the play-offs is on Thursday 20 November, with the one-legged semi-finals and finals held in March.



Source: BBC Sport

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