Wales are set to meet either Scotland or Ukraine on June 5 in the World Cup play-off final, but who would Rob Page’s side prefer to welcome to Cardiff?
After the heroics from Gareth Bale scoring two great goals to secure the 2-1 win against Austria, the Dragons are just one game away from qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 1958. They will now face either Scotland or Ukraine in the final which will take place at the Cardiff City stadium.
As we know, the play-off final was due to be played on March 29, but due to Russia president Vladimir Putin taking the decision to launch an invasion on Ukraine, the play-off semi-final between Scotland and Ukraine is yet to have been played.
Despite this, UEFA have confirmed that the play-off final will be played on the 5 June, with the semi-final being played on June 1 where Scotland host Ukraine at Hampden Park.
The final winners will reach the 2022 World Cup, and will face England, Iran and USA in the group stage.
But, out of the two teams who would The Dragons prefer to face off against?
There is a belief that Wales would rather play Ukraine than Scotland.
First of all, Scotland have a superior all-round squad than Ukraine. For example, they have a lot of experienced Premier League players including the likes of Andrew Robertson, Kieran Tierney, Scott McTominay, John McGinn etc. which I think will show when the teams play each other.
Not only that, but you must take into consideration that the Ukrainian domestic league, where the majority of the international players are based, has been shut down. Despite Ukrainian manager Andriy Shevchenko being adamant that the encounter should go ahead, he has admitted this is provided he can put a team together.
Although every football fan will want Ukraine to be able to play their best team possible to provide a level playing field, with everything that’s going on now, it might be difficult for them to get a fully match fit squad, which think could show in the result if Wales were to play Ukraine.
However, you could argue that Ukraine, if they are able to play, will approach the game with extra motivation due to their geopolitical situation. Their determination could be too much for Wales, which may make The Dragons better off playing Scotland.
Overall, Scotland will be a more difficult game than Ukraine. Not only due to the squad that they have, but also the support they are able to bring. The Scots are known to be passionate about their football and they will most definitely bring a massive support over to Cardiff if they make it through.
Whoever advances will know they have a hard game on their hands as they travel down to Cardiff City Stadium, where Wales haven’t lost in 18 games. One thing is for sure, the Red Wall will be bouncing on the day
Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt