Prediction: Wales vs Finland

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 23/10

Bookmaker: 888sport

Now that we have the full line-up of 24 countries that will take part in next year’s UEFA Euro 2021 tournament, it’s time to turn our attention back to the UEFA Nations League. This competition, which is still in its infancy, proved last night why it can serve as such a valuable tool for teams that are looking for an alternate route into a major international tournament. Today, we’re going to take a look at what should be an exciting UNL clash between two nations that are hoping to cause a stir next summer – Wales and Finland.

Wales

The tale of Wales’ UEFA Euro 2016 journey will forever be remembered in the country, but there’s a growing fear that they won’t be able to live up to those heights at Euro 2021. From the turmoil surrounding Ryan Giggs to the questions over Gareth Bale’s ability to lead them forward into another tournament, there are so many unanswered questions left hanging over the national team’s head. For now, though, all they can do is take things one game at a time.

Team News

Ben Davies will be a big miss through suspension, but up top, Wilson is expected to make a push for the starting XI. The only other lingering concerns are Ramsey and Cabango who are both out through injury.

Finland

It’s been a long time coming, but Finland are finally starting to resemble a team capable of causing some damage on the world stage. They’ll be heading into Euro 2021 full of confidence with a decent group of Denmark, Belgium and Russia, but prior to that, they’ll be eager to edge above Wales in League B Group 4 of the UEFA Nations League. Of course, only a win will allow them to do that, which should ensure a strong attacking performance from the visitors in Cardiff.

Team News

Raitala has been forced to withdraw from the squad prior to the Wales game with the only other absence for Finland being veteran Sparv who will miss out through suspension.

Factors to Consider

• In their Nations League opener back in September, 1st place Wales beat 2nd place Finland 1-0.
• Wales have won three, drawn two and lost one of their last six games.
• Finland have won five and lost one of their last six games.
• Wales have scored three goals and have five clean sheets in their last six games.
• Finland have scored nine goals and have four clean sheets in their last six games.

Conclusion

One thing we know about these two teams right now is that they’re incredibly sturdy at the back, and while we do think both are capable of getting on the scoresheet, we also feel as if they’re going to cancel each other out. Finland have improved since these two last met in September whereas the Welsh are still somewhat searching for a real identity within their squad, and together, all of these elements should make for an intriguing yet anti-climactic encounter.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 23/10

Bookmaker: 888sport