Wilson Aims to Leverage Home Advantage for Wales’ World Cup Journey

Wales faces a crucial moment in their quest for World Cup qualification after Belgium’s 4-2 win in Cardiff. With this result, Belgium has taken the lead in Group J, and their required three points from upcoming fixtures against Kazakhstan and Liechtenstein positions them for group victory.

Wales’ Challenge for Second Place

Wales and North Macedonia are now vying for the second qualification spot. Currently, North Macedonia holds a three-point advantage over Wales, having played one additional game. The two sides are set to clash at Cardiff City Stadium on November 18.

Upcoming Matches

• Wales will play against Liechtenstein on November 15.
• Wales needs to secure a six-goal victory in Vaduz to surpass North Macedonia’s goal difference.

Finishing second in Group J is vital for Wales. This outcome would likely ensure a playoff spot in March, based on their Nations League performance from the previous year. Moreover, the semi-final would be hosted at home, increasing their chances of success.

Insights from Key Players

Fulham forward Harry Wilson emphasized the significance of home advantage, referencing successful experiences in past World Cup playoffs against Austria and Ukraine. He noted, “The last World Cup showed how important those two home games were.”

Wilson acknowledged the challenge posed by North Macedonia, a team that has drawn with Belgium twice and once held Wales to a stalemate. “It won’t be easy. They’ve shown they are a difficult side,” he stated.

For the match against Liechtenstein, Wilson will not participate due to a suspension from a second yellow card received earlier in the campaign. He remarked, “It’s fine margins when you’re playing against these top teams, but now it’s on to next month.”