opponent review: Wales part 1

Russia’s World Cup qualifying begins with an important match against Wales on Wednesday in Moscow. As we head into each match I will be reviewing the opposition as well as tactical decisions Guus Hiddink will employ.

In quick commentary of Group 4, clearly Russia’s main competition is Germany which demolished Liechtenstein 6-0 yesterday. The score of this match is an important consideration as the battle for automatic promotion could come down to goal differential. Clearly with Germany’s outpouring of goals, the typical practice of letting-up once victory is assured must be let go now and it could make for some very lop-sided matches.

As Wales heads into Moscow, tired from an exhausting 1-0 victory Azerbaijan they are also dealing with an enormous injury problem. In yesterdays match they were missing five of their normal starters (Craig Bellamy, Freddy Eastwood, James Collins, Lewin Nyatanga and Danny Gabbidon) but did receive a last minute entry of play-maker Jason Koumas.

After the Wales match, Jason Koumas commented: “I needed three different injections before the Azerbaijan game and I’m definitely struggling for Russia.”

Additionally for Wales, Gareth Bale suffered a modest injury and while he notes he will be available, clearly this will be fielding a squad made up of there very talented U-21 members.

I will provide a complete review of match one opponent Wales as well as Russia’s approach shortly.