Wales, riding on successive wins in Group D, control their Euro 2024 qualifying destiny. The upcoming clash against Armenia on Saturday holds immense importance, as a win would position them within touching distance of next summer’s finals.
The Dragons, after a stellar victory over group favorites Croatia, seek redemption for their earlier defeat to Armenia. Meanwhile, the hosts remain contenders in the qualifiers.
Match Preview:
Wales, with wins over Latvia and Croatia, have strengthened their bid for a third consecutive European Championship appearance.
Their recent 2-1 victory against Croatia, courtesy of a Harry Wilson brace, puts them in contention to qualify directly for Germany 2024 by triumphing over Armenia and Turkey in their final fixtures.
Their aspiration to secure a spot in the top two alongside Turkey seems promising, considering their level points with Croatia and a superior head-to-head record.
Wales might secure qualification this week if they defeat Armenia and Latvia manages to upset Croatia, although the latter outcome appears unlikely.
From enduring back-to-back qualifying defeats to potentially securing a fourth major tournament appearance in five attempts, Wales’ journey has been remarkable. This resurgence follows a subpar performance at the previous year’s World Cup.
Armenia’s surprise victory over Wales in Cardiff, with Lucas Zelaryan’s volleyed opener and Grant-Leon Ranos’ brace, marked a significant turn in their pursuit for a first-ever major finals appearance.
However, subsequent slip-ups have slightly dented their standing in the qualifiers.
Coach Oleksandr Petrakov faces the challenge of rejuvenating Armenia’s campaign after their recent setback against Latvia.
Armenia’s chances to finish in the top two hinge on their upcoming match against Wales and the result of Croatia’s game against Latvia.
Armenia’s Euro Champ Qualifying Form: L W W D L L
Armenia’s Overall Form: W W D L L L
Wales’ Euro Champ Qualifying Form: D W L L W W
Wales’ Overall Form: L L D W W W
Team News:
Tottenham Hotspur’s Brennan Johnson returns to the Wales squad after recovering from injury, while Aaron Ramsey remains absent.
Joe Morrell is back post-suspension, and additions include Jay Dasilva and Niall Huggins. Kieffer Moore eyes redemption after his earlier dismissal against Armenia.
Armenia will field their strongest lineup, drawing from a diverse pool of talent including Lucas Zelarayan, Norberto Briasco, Andre Calisir, and Ugochukwu Iwu.
Tigran Barseghyan, with nine goals, is expected to support Zelarayan in the forward line.
Possible Starting Lineups:
Armenia:(3-4-2-1)
Cancarevic;
Calisir, Arutyunyan, Mkrtchyan;
Dashyan, Iwu, Spertsyan, Tiknizyan;
Briasco, Barseghyan;
Zelarayan
Wales:(3-4-2-1)
Ward;
Mepham, Rodon, Davies;
Roberts, J. James, Ampadu, Williams;
Johnson, Wilson;
Moore
Prediction:
The clash at Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium is crucial for Wales despite their recent form. Expect a close encounter with Wales narrowly edging past Armenia with a 2-1 victory.
