Wales are playing in their first World Cup since 1958, but how will they set up under Rob Page?
(Image credit: Getty)
Wales are back on the world stage for the first time since the 1958, and won't be happy simply making up the numbers in Qatar. Six years ago, Gareth Bale & Co. stunned their continent at Euro 2016, taking some big scalps en route to the semi-finals, and will be hoping to channel that same spirit this winter.
A favourable group (with USA, Iran and neighbours England the order of play) gives them every chance of making it to the knockout rounds and, backed up by some of the most passionate supporters around, they'll fancy their chances of going even deeper.
But how will Wales play in Qatar, what is their best formation and where do their strengths and weaknesses lie? FFT brings you the lowdown...
What formation will Wales play in Qatar?
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Under manager Rob Page, Wales have settled on a 3-4-3 formation, with Wayne Hennessey in goal behind a back three of Ethan Ampadu, Joe Rodon and Ben Davies.
In front of the trio, Aaron Ramsey and Joe Allen will be flanked by Connor Roberts and Neco Williams. Up top, Kieffer Moore will play between Dan James and the nation's not-so-secret weapon, Gareth Bale.
There isn't a huge amount of quality beyond that XI, although Fulham creator Harry Wilson and Nottingham Forest's Brennan Johnson are exceptions. The widemen will expect plenty of opportunities, at least from the bench.
What is Wale's style of play?
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During qualifying, Wales proved themselves and diligent and stubborn side, who are happy to sit deep and concede possession before launching counter attacks.
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It isn't hard to see why. The team is solid, if unspectacular, barring a pair of wingers that will utterly terrify defences for different reasons. On the left, the lightning pace and relentless running of Dan James has the potential to cause considerable headaches. On the other flank is, well... Gareth Bale. The LAFC forward is invariably a force of nature for his nation, and getting him on the ball around the opposition area is Plan A, B and C.
Aaron Ramsey's movement and Joe Allen's passing range mean there is also decent platform on which to build attacks. Meanwhile, Kieffer Moore revels in being massive pain in the backside for opposition defenders.
Strengths and weaknesses
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Bale is Wales' all-time leading scorer, with an impressive 40 strikes in 108 caps. Few players on Earth are as clinical as the former Spurs and Real Madrid powerhouse. He can score any type of goal, from free-kicks and overheads to toe-pokes and tap-ins. Bale provides a goal threat even the tournament's favourites wouldn't turn down.
Beyond that, the left-hand side looks pretty dangerous. Ben Davies, Neco Williams (who will be looking to cut inside on his stronger right foot) and James is a trio many nations would be satisfied with. Expect a lot of attacks to go down that side, with the goal of working it to Bale at the far post.
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Ed is a staff writer at FourFourTwo, working across the magazine and website. A German speaker, he’s been working as a football reporter in Berlin since 2015, predominantly covering the Bundesliga and Germany's national team. Favourite FFT features include an exclusive interview with Jude Bellingham following the youngster’s move to Borussia Dortmund in 2020, a history of the Berlin Derby since the fall of the Wall and a celebration of Kevin Keegan’s playing career.
