Wale’s post-Gareth Bale era is officially to a start as they salvaged a point against Croatia. Wales seek a first win of Euro 2024 qualifying on Tuesday, when Group D outsiders Latvia visit Cardiff City Stadium. Finding a stoppage-time equaliser in Split sets up Rob Page’s men for an encounter with a side that were edged out in a friendly encounter with the Republic of Ireland last week.
Team News:
After admitting he made a triple substitution in Split to prioritise winning at home to Latvia, Rob Page will name Daniel James, Harry Wilson and new captain Aaron Ramsey in his starting XI on Tuesday.
All three were all withdrawn against Croatia – with match-winner Nathan Broadhead among the replacements – but none is playing regularly at club level and are short of match-fitness. Meanwhile, seeking his 10th international goal, Kieffer Moore is set to lead the line up front.
Wayne Hennessey and Ben Davies were previously forced to withdraw from the Wales squad, while Brennan Johnson misses out due to a groin injury.
Latvia’s impressive fightback against Ireland should see the bulk of their lineup retained from Friday, with Roberts Uldrikis starting alongside Vladislavs Gutkovskis in attack.
Spezia forward Raimonds Krollis, who moved to Serie A in the winter transfer window, is among those who appeared from the bench in Dublin and are now pushing for involvement from the first whistle.
At the back, Riga FC defender Antonijs Cernomordijs will captain the visitors from the heart of their defence.
Wales possible starting lineup:
Ward; Roberts, Mepham, Rodon, Williams; Ampadu, Morrell; Wilson, Ramsey, James; Moore
Latvia possible starting lineup:
Steinbors; Savalnieks, Cernomordijs, Balodis, Sorokins; Ikauniekis, Tobers, Zjuzins, Ciganiks; Uldrikis, Gutkovskis
Prediction: Wales 2-1 Latvia
Having overachieved by taking a point home from Croatia, it is essential for Wales to capitalise by posting three more points on Tuesday. The home side are well-placed to do so, as they are a formidable prospect in Cardiff; however, Latvia have proved they can pose a threat and have scored in each of their fixtures since the start of last year.
