World Cup: Wales v Iran
Image: Sky Sports
Welsh football fans are gearing up ahead of tonight’s World Cup second Group B match, which sees Wales face-off against Iran.
Wales advanced through to the second round after an 82nd minute penalty kick from Gareth Bale in a drawn qualifying opener against USA, breaking a 64-year World Cup drought for Wales.
It’s only the second time since 1958 that Wales has qualified for the World Cup finals tournament. For many, including MADCAP Global’s Welsh-born Managing Director Stephen Morris, this is a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
“Truly remarkable, I’ve never seen anything like it,” Stephen says.
“There’s an intense pride that runs through the Welsh, especially with football, and it’s only been heightened by watching our lads prove themselves on the world stage. Bale is a magnificent player, but it takes a team effort, and this team is one of the best.”
There has been a similarly emotional outpouring from Welsh fans all over the world as they bear witness to a truly historic moment.
A win against Iran is essential for Wales if they wish to keep their World Cup dream alive. Wales manager Rob Page has reported that although his team are feeling the rigours of a punishing World Cup schedule, the return of Joe Allen after passing a medical is set to give the side a boost going into the match.
The hope is real for a Welsh victory over Iran, as it for a potential Wales v England match depending on the outcome of tonight’s England v USA bout.
The expected starting line-up for the match includes, 1. Hennessey (GK) 5. Mepham, 6. Rodon, 4. B. Davies, 14. Roberts, 10. Ramsey, 7. Allen, 8. Wilson, 3. N. Williams, 11. Bale and 13. Moore.