
Wales take the long trip to Astana to face Kazakhstan as they look to maintain their position in Group J. Having picked up seven points from their opening four matches, Wales sit in second place but know they must beat Kazakhstan once again if they are to have any real chance of qualifying for the next World Cup. Nathan Joyes explains.
With one win and two defeats to their name, it hasn't been the best start for Kazakhstan. Everyone in the group is expected to beat Liechtenstein, and so that one can be cast to one side. But a 4-1 battering against Belarus can't be during a recent friendly, and although it was only a narrow defeat against North Macedonia, they never looked like getting points from that match.
They do, however, have a secret weapon up their sleeve. Forward Dastan Satpeev is only 17, but he's been in fine form for Kairat Almaty, guiding them to their first ever Champions League group stage. Wales will need to keep him quiet.
Wales have made a good start to their World Cup qualifying campaign. They comfortably beat Kazakhstan 3-1 on home soil, before rescuing what could be a crucial point on the road against North Macedonia in the 96th minute.
A 4-3 defeat followed against Belgium, but they fought back from 3-0 down to almost pinch an invaluable point. There's confidence, and quality, within this Welsh side - and they won't be scared of Kazakhstan - despite their tough environment.
Brennan Johnson has been in fine form for Spurs at the start of the season, and having scored against Belgium, he could once again be the difference in Astana.
As mentioned, Wales beat Kazakhstan 3-1 in the reverse fixture - only conceding a soft penalty in the first half. Two goals in the second period from Ben Davies and Rabbi Matondo helped secure the win. That was their only ever meeting to date.
Wales must win if they are to have any real chance of competing at the World Cup next summer. These are the type of games they can't afford to lose. However, will the long trip and environment impact the result? Let's take a look at the betting.
This is Wales' opportunity to create history. With two home matches in their favour - as well as an easy trip to Liechtenstein - this could be the fixture they look back on as the one that takes them to the US next summer.
Astana isn't the ideal away trip - and Kazakhstan will make life difficult for them. But we saw enough from their previous meeting to show there's too much class between these two nations.
The fact Wales scored three and almost secured a point against group favourites Belgium proves that point. There won't be an intimidating, large crowd for Wales to deal with, and they've already proven on the road not much phases them.
Having scored three at home, there's no reason why they can't score at least two on Thursday. Kazakhstan aren't cut out for a World Cup spot, but Wales are. An away victory looks good, especially adding in over 1.5 match goals.
TIP: Wales and over 1.5 match goals at 10/11 with Betano.
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