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craig bellamy He admitted finishing second in the World Cup qualifying group is “huge” for Wales with the carrot of a home semi-final in the March play-offs.
Wales host unbeaten North Macedonia in their final qualifier on Tuesday in a battle for the runners-up spot behind Belgium, who are Formalities to top Group J are expected to be completed Against Liechtenstein in Liège.
North Macedonia’s superior goal difference means Wales must win to climb above them and gain home advantage in the play-offs.
If they don’t do so, Wales will be one of the lowest-seeded teams in the play-off draw and will face stiff competition from the Pot One nations – which also includes Italy.
“It’s huge,” Wales manager Bellamy said in his pre-match press conference, discussing play-off scenarios.
“I could lie and say it’s not like that. But, come on, finishing second and playing home games is a big deal.
“If we finish fourth (seeded) then the away games and the teams in those games (are difficult) – and I also fear this excessive VAR (Video Assistant Referee).
“My experience of watching Wales over the years and being able to qualify for major tournaments, being at home is a big advantage.”
Wales endured a nervous night in Liechtenstein on Saturday Earning a 1-0 win against opponents ranked as low as 206th in the world.
It was a tough occasion to see the midfield pair Ethan Ampadu And Jordan James ruled out the North Macedonia game through suspension after picking up his second booking in the competition.
But Bellamy – who has rarely come close to qualifying for a major tournament during his Wales playing career – has acknowledged the pressure of having the group decided in the final game.
He said: “I like the fact that we have something on this sport. I like the fact that we have something on Liechtenstein and Belgian sports.”
“It’s a new experience for me because when I was playing the last three or four games we had nothing to play for, so it’s quite nice.
“We know we have to win, but we also have to be patient. This is important because North Macedonia defends deeply.
“They are happy not to have possession but they have the ability to counter-attack, so we have to be aware of that.”
Bellamy named harry wilson As their third captain in as many games with Ben Davis injured and Ampadu suspended.
The 28-year-old Fulham forward will lead Wales for the first time to win his 67th cap.
“Everyone wants Ben and Ethan to play, because we know what important players they are to us,” Wilson said.
“But because of Ben’s injury and Ethan’s unfortunate yellow, it gave someone else the chance to be captain and that’s a big honor for me.
“I’m one of the senior players now and it’s something I’ve dreamed of for a long time.”
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