Wales edged out Austria 2-1 in the Cardiff City Stadium on March 24th. A Motivated Gareth Bale carried Wales with his world class ability in this fixture. Austria had a great chance early on hitting the woodwork. An inch-perfect free kick from Bale gave Wales the lead in the first half with 25 minutes played. Early in the second half this lead was doubled again by Bale following a corner and Wales were in full control.Â
However in the 64th minute Austria got a goal following a deflected shot from Marcel Sabitzer. After this it was Austria who searched for the equaliser and looked to get crosses into the box. Wales had a few more chances to extend their lead with excellent counter attacks led by the pace of Daniel James, who had a few chances alone to extend Wales’ lead.
Austria kept coming but their efforts were not rewarded with a goal and Wales won the game sending them to a World cup play-off final.
Wales will now play the winners of Ukraine and Scotland in June for a spot in the World Cup. The game will take place in Cardiff. If Wales were to win it would be the first time since 1958 they have qualified for the World Cup.
Wales know what group they would be in should they qualify with the draw taking place already. Wales would be in group B with England, USA and Iran. This would be a great group for Wales with England being a home nation and the rivalry would produce a great game. USA and Iran are opponents Wales have a good opportunity to get good results from.
Wales would have a good chance to get through the group phase and into the knockout rounds.
