One of Wales’ strongest sides in history will be in the spotlight as they take on Slovakia in the opening game for Group B. Join The Roar from 2am AEST for live scores from the match.
With Gareth Bale on form internationally, Aaron Ramsey fit to play and Joe Allen recovered from a minor knee problem, Wales will be confident against Slovakia despite being slight underdogs.
During the qualifiers Bale scored or assisted nine of Wales’ 11 goals, and took 52 shots, more than any other player from any side in that stage.
The Welsh defence has also been on form, only conceding four goals in the qualifying stages. Only England, Spain and Romania let in fewer.
Ramsey has created more opportunities towards goal than any other Welsh player, so watch out for the Arsenal midfielder’s linkups with Bale.
Slovakia have already been dealt a rough hand with their all-time leading goal scorer Robert Vittek missing out on the opener due to injury.
However, the Slovaks will still have midfielder Marek Hamsik at their disposal. Hamsik was Slovakia’s leading scorer in the qualifying stage with five.
It seems that either Adam Nemec or Michal Duris will start up front, both men will have the opportunity to shine early on in the competition and perhaps keep their place in the starting XI.
In the two times these sides have played, Slovakia have won 5-1 and Wales have won 5-2. There is more on the line now than there has ever been, so expect a much closer encounter.
Prediction
Wales 1 – 1 Slovakia
Join The Roar from 2am AEST for live scores from the match.
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