As we build momentum towards the World Cup, the chase gets even more interesting. We are seeing for the first time since 1958, a possibility that Wales might be going to the World Cup. It has been an exciting turn of events so far in the qualifying stages. Some top teams that have always made appearances, were cut short on their journey, with the highlight being Italy.
This goes a long way to give us an idea of how thrilling this World Cup promises to be. Little wonder bettors have been gearing up with world cup 2022 betting tips to make the most out of the competition
Wales’ Journey So Far
Wales have struggled to get into the World Cup events since 1958. But this time, there is a glimmer of hope they might make it through with just one match in the playoffs.
Wales started actively showing that they were a force to be reckoned with in the Euro 2016. They pulled an interesting performance by finishing as runner-up in their qualifying group. Eventually, their journey in the Euros 2016 was cut short when they faced Portugal in the semifinals.
Their impressive performance in the Euros that year didn’t go unnoticed as they ascended in the World FIFA rankings that year.
However, by some unlikely streak of events, Wales didn’t push that far in the Euros 2020. Their journey hit a block in the round 16 when they faced Denmark. Wales were thrashed 0-4 on home soil by Denmark. The disappointment on the faces of Wales’ key players like Gareth Bale was palpable, given the expectations they had for that game.
It is with this fire that they have played the qualifying stages of the World Cup so far, leaving them with a game against Scotland or Ukraine to determine their fate.
The semi-final playoffs between Wales and Ukraine should have been held since late March, save for the unfortunate Russian invasion of Ukraine. Seeing that Wales are now in the clear after beating Austria in the semi-final playoff, whoever wins between Ukraine and Scotland will be facing Wales.
Scotland have not played in the World Cup since 1998 where they were knocked out in a group containing Morocco, Norway and Brazil. Looking at the difficult competition they seem to have faced in that group, it is not surprising an outcome. It seems their long-term dream of playing in the World Cup is looking to piece together finally. We expect them to put up a fierce fight against Ukraine as they go head-to-head.
On the other hand, Ukraine made their first ever appearance in the World Cup in 2006, which is following their split from the Soviet Union.
Though they gave it their best, their best only took them as far as the quarter-finals. Ever since, they have been waiting to seize an opportunity to be part of the glorious competition. Seeing how close they are to making that happen, we don’t see them letting it slip by their hands easily.
Who will get to eventually meet Wales in the finals playoff? We can only get to know in a couple of days.
Group Stage Prospects
Whoever wins the final playoffs, gets a spot in the Group B, containing England, Iran and USA. Iran are currently ranked 21st in the world, USA currently ranks 18th, while England currently ranks 4th. It must be said this is not an easy group to be in. However, with Wales currently ranking 18th in the world rankings, it is safe to say they are no small fry as well.
If they qualify, Wales will be playing against the USA in the first matchup. Eventually, they will be meeting England and it finally seems like an opportunity has presented itself for a comeback.
A little back story: Wales, in a close shave, lost 2-1 to England in the Euros 2016. Though their loss didn’t lead to their leaving in the semi-finals, it still left a bad taste in their mouth. Ever since both teams have sort of become rivals and a fixture between them is one to look forward to.
First off, Wales needs to give it their all to see themselves through to the World Cup. Expectations are high for them especially following their display against Austria. With the likes of Gareth Bale and co, their chances are not so bad. Not to mention the fact that Rob Page, their coach, has been vocal about how serious they are about wanting to get to the World Cup. We will only know how serious he is when he eventually faces Ukraine or Scotland for a spot in Group B.
