Wales vs. Iceland – Prediction and Betting Tips | Nov 19, 2024
On Tuesday, November 19, 2024, Wales will host Iceland at the Cardiff City Stadium in a decisive UEFA Nations League League B Group 4 fixture. Both teams have promotion and relegation implications riding on this match, making it a high-stakes encounter for both sides. Wales currently sit second in the group, while Iceland are just two points behind in third.
With Wales fighting to leapfrog Turkey into first place and Iceland vying to secure a promotion playoff, this encounter promises to be a tactical and emotional battle.
Wales: Resilience Over Firepower
Craig Bellamy’s side showcased remarkable determination during their recent 0-0 draw against Turkey. Despite struggling to find the net, the Dragons displayed defensive solidity, highlighted by Joe Rodon’s heroics in managing to finish the match despite a head injury.
However, Wales’ offensive woes are evident, having scored just four goals in their last eight matches. The lack of a clinical edge has been a recurring theme, with their last Nations League home win coming against Montenegro over a year ago.
Key to Wales’ chances will be their ability to harness the attacking energy of Brennan Johnson and Daniel James, while relying on a solid backline anchored by Ben Davies and Chris Mepham.
Iceland: Late Bloomers
Iceland have risen to the occasion in their last few games, most notably securing a 2-0 win against Montenegro, thanks to late strikes from Orri Oskarsson and Isak Bergmann Johannesson.
Their attacking prowess has steadily improved, with a growing reliance on the creative talents of Johannesson in midfield and Andri Gudjohnsen up front. However, a tendency to falter defensively away from home has left the Nordic side vulnerable in high-pressure situations.
Despite their inconsistency, Iceland’s record in this Nations League campaign under Age Hareide has been encouraging. They’ll be buoyed by their spirited 2-2 draw with Wales earlier in the campaign.
Team News
Wales
Injury concerns continue to plague Bellamy’s squad. Mark Harris is a doubt following a head injury sustained against Turkey, likely paving the way for Daniel James or Liam Cullen to start in attack.
Meanwhile, Joe Rodon is expected to feature, but Ben Cabango and Chris Mepham are on standby. The absence of Kieffer Moore has left a void in their forward line, adding pressure on younger talents to deliver.
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Iceland
Iceland face the absence of Logi Tomasson due to suspension, while captain Aron Gunnarsson is unlikely to recover from a thigh injury sustained against Montenegro. This could see Victor Palsson deputize in defense, while Johannesson’s goal-scoring form could earn him a starting role.
Up front, Andri Gudjohnsen is set to lead the attack, supported by Bjarki Steinn Bjarkason and Jón Dagur Thorsteinsson.
Key Battles to Watch
- Brennan Johnson vs. Iceland’s Defense
Johnson’s pace and trickery will be critical for Wales to unlock Iceland’s backline. How Iceland’s defenders cope with his movement could dictate the flow of the game. - Isak Bergmann Johannesson vs. Wales’ Midfield
Johannesson’s creativity was evident in Iceland’s last match, and he’ll look to exploit any gaps left by a Wales midfield that is often more focused on defensive duties. - Set-Piece Scenarios
Both teams have shown vulnerabilities in defending set pieces, making dead-ball situations a potential game-changer.
Prediction: Wales vs. Iceland
Given Wales’ home advantage and Iceland’s recent form, this encounter is finely poised. Wales’ defensive resilience and Iceland’s late-game heroics suggest a close affair.
Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: Wales 1-1 Iceland
Betting Tips
- Full-Time Result: Draw
The evenly matched nature of both sides makes a draw a strong possibility. - Both Teams to Score: Yes
Both teams have demonstrated vulnerabilities in defense, enhancing the chances of goals on both ends. - Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Under 2.5
Wales’ scoring struggles and Iceland’s cautious approach suggest a low-scoring affair. - Hot Stat: Iceland Unbeaten in Last 4 Nations League Matches
Iceland’s recent resilience could see them avoid defeat once more.
Possible Lineups
Wales Possible Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
Darlow; Roberts, Mepham, Davies, Williams; J. James, Sheehan; D. James, Wilson, Thomas; Johnson
Iceland Possible Starting XI (4-4-2):
Valdimarsson; Lunddal, Palsson, Ingason, Sampsted; Gudmundsson, Traustason, Johannesson, Thorsteinsson; Gudjohnsen, Oskarsson
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