News Beat
Wales given just 30% chance of qualifying for World Cup, predicts supercomputer
WALES have been given a damning verdict over their chances of World Cup qualification.
Craig Bellamy‘s men battered North Macedonia 7-1 on Tuesday to seal their place in the World Cup play-off semi-finals.
But to have any chance of joining Scotland in the United States, Canada and Mexico, they’ll have to get past Bosnia and Herzegovina in their semi-final clash on March 26.
And after that, a likely play-off final Path A tie beckons against Italy, unless Northern Ireland can shock the Azzurri.
The odds are against Wales, who performed admirably to finish second in Group J with 16 points, just two off leaders Belgium.
They won five games, drawing one and losing twice, running Belgium close in both matches against them – being beaten 4-3 and 4-2.
But according to We Global Football‘s supercomputer, Wales only have a 30 per cent chance of progressing to next year’s tournament.
Compared to the rest of the teams with them in Path A, Italy have been backed at 62 per cent to reach the World Cup.
Meanwhile, Northern Ireland have been given a bleak outlook, with a chance of just 3.8 per cent after being pitted with Italy in the semi-final.
Their neighbours Republic of Ireland have been given a slightly more optimistic verdict.
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Heimir Hallgrímsson‘s men were given an 8.4 per cent chance of getting to the World Cup as they face Czech Republic in their semi.
The team with the smallest chance, according to the probabilities, are North Macedonia with 3.2 per cent – which isn’t a surprise after their hammering by Wales.
For Wales, they’ll still be confident of reaching the World Cup despite the gloomy forecast – especially after their demolition job that left them on a high.
Manager Bellamy said their performance was “close to perfect”, saying their home form would be vital going into the play-offs.
He said: “The way we were able to use the ball, our timing. We were just so clean with the ball and that allows you to have good chances. It was one of those days where we are able to take them as well.”
“When we play home, it’s very important for us. Tonight was as close to perfect that I could have asked for.
“But you have to be wary of these teams, and I know we’re in pot two. The teams in pot three are going to be similar to what we faced tonight.
“But I’ll just enjoy tonight – a really top performance.”
