Wales are back on the road as they head to North Macedonia for their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, with hopes high following their recent victory over Kazakhstan. Under the guidance of manager Craig Bellamy, the team has maintained an unbeaten streak, showcasing impressive resilience and tactical prowess.
On March 25, 2025, the Welsh squad will face North Macedonia in Skopje, just three days after triumphing against Kazakhstan with a 3-1 win at Cardiff City Stadium. Forward Daniel James opened the scoring for Wales, followed closely by Ben Davies, who added a second goal before Rabbi Matondo sealed the deal late in the match. These performances have left the Welsh camp buzzing with optimism, particularly as they look to secure their place in the upcoming World Cup.
The match against North Macedonia is not without its challenges. The Welsh team will have to overcome memories of defeat from their last encounter with North Macedonia, which ended in a 2-1 loss in 2013, eliminating them from the running for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Yet, Bellamy is unfazed about being labeled an underdog. “I never see us as an underdog. I’m not an underdog, I never have been,” he emphasized in recent comments. His unwavering belief in the squad reflects a growing confidence, as they aim for back-to-back World Cup appearances.
This upcoming match is particularly important for both sides. North Macedonia has also recorded six consecutive victories, including a solid 3-0 finish against Liechtenstein in their last encounter. Sitting atop World Cup qualifying Group J, they will be determined to maintain their momentum against Wales.
Bellamy's strategic approach has brought fresh energy to the team. His tactics emphasize high-intensity play and clever build-up chances. Player Jordan James has emerged as a vital component of the squad, providing crucial links between defense and attack, helping maintain balance and order during matches.
As the match approaches, Wales will rely on star players such as James and Liam Cullen, who will be key in structuring their offensive tactics. The odds are in favor of Wales, with betting markets indicating strong potential for a win. Those looking to place bets will find odds such as Cullen registering at least two shots on target, as well as Wales winning while both teams score, appearing promising.
Moreover, more than 2,000 Welsh supporters are expected to travel to Skopje, bringing vibrant spirit and motivation to the squad. Unfortunately, there are concerns around fan behavior and safety, spurred by a recent incident involving violence involving a few individuals who marred recent matches. Authorities will need to ensure a secure environment for fans, especially for families attending the game.
Kick-off is set for 7:45 PM local time, with coverage available across various media, including BBC One Wales, BBC Three, and BBC Radio 5 Live. Fans unable to attend can follow the action live through streaming platforms and radio. The coming match is expected to be a nail-biter, with both teams seeking victory to bolster their qualifying positions.
Ultimately, Wales has set their sights on not only a victory against North Macedonia but also on a successful qualification for the 2026 World Cup, striving for glory on the international stage. The team’s trajectory has inspired fans to remain hopeful, merging their dreams with the performance on the pitch. As fans gather in support, there is an prevailing sense of unity, with hopes that tonight will mark another historic chapter in Welsh football.
