The final countdown to UEFA Euro 2024 has officially begun as we approach a string of highly anticipated international friendlies. Some of the nations that are playing this week are heading for the big tournament and others aren’t, but either way, it’s important for all of them to try and build some momentum. Today, we’ll be taking a look at the impending clash between Gibraltar and Wales.
Gibraltar Form GuideAs a national team that is barely a decade old, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that Gibraltar are underdogs. It happens in just about every game they partake in and, really, so it should. They don’t really have the resources necessary to make this kind of operation work right now but in truth, it’s all about baby steps, which is why it’ll be exciting to see how things continue to develop.
Gibraltar’s qualifying campaign was only eight games long, but it was still pretty horrendous, all things considered. They lost all of their matches, didn’t score a single goal and conceded 41 goals. Oh, and they were also handed a record-breaking 14-0 battering by France.
Wales Form GuideThe Dragons are beginning to find their feet on the international stage as they have now qualified for three of the last four major tournaments. Their World Cup adventure didn’t quite go to plan but in equal measure, they’ve looked pretty good at the European level. Their Euro 2016 exploits will always be fondly remembered but now, it’s all about showing growth in a post-Gareth Bale landscape.
Wales finished in 3rd place in qualifying behind Turkey and Croatia, and they actually only lost two games throughout the course of their campaign. They went on to beat Finland 4-1 in their play-off semi-final, but they fell short in the final as they were beaten on penalties by Poland.
Match PredictionIn a game like this, the whole point is to do everything in your power to make an impact - but at the same time, there are far more important matches that lie ahead. Alas, there’s a clear gulf in quality between these two sides, which is one of the reasons why we’re going to back over 2.5 goals scored.
