Team news and updates ahead of World Cup play-off semi-final

Can Wales repeat their 2022 heroics and seal World Cup qualification via the play-offs?

Wales are two wins away from sealing back-to-back World Cup finals but will need to go through Bosnia and Herzegovina to earn that shot at qualification.

Craig Bellamy ’s side missed out on top spot in their qualifying group to Belgium but thrashed North Macedonia 7-1 on the last matchday to ensure they would get a lifeline in the ever-perilous play-offs.

Against a Bosnian side spearheaded by veteran striker Edin Dzeko , Wales will be hoping for a repeat of their 2022 heroics, when they navigated the play-offs to end a 64-year wait for World Cup qualification in Qatar.

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Wales enjoyed a positive qualifying campaign, but two defeats against Belgium were costly.

However, Craig Bellamy’s side secured a higher seed in the play-offs by finishing second, above North Macedonia, after a 7-1 win in their final match.

Wales are without key squad members such as Ben Davies, Chris Mepham, Kieffer Moore and Connor Roberts due to injury, but Harry Wilson has been declared fit.

Captain Aaron Ramsey did not make the squad, having not played competitively since September.

Bosnia were dealt a blow with Sampdoria defender Dennis Hadzikadunic’s withdrawal from the squad, but Dzeko is set to lead the line with 146 caps and 72 goals in his back pocket.

Wales vs Bosnia and Herzegovina live
Good evening Welsh fans - are we sitting comfortably?

Wales host Bosnia and Herzegovina in Cardiff tonight, with both sides just two matches away from the 2026 World Cup.

Craig Bellamy ’s side had to settle for a runner-up spot in their qualifying group, with Belgium taking the automatic place, but the Welsh will be full of confidence after thrashing North Macedonia 7-1 in November.

Wales are looking to qualify for their second consecutive World Cup, after their group-stage exit in Qatar.

As for Bosnia, they were denied a top-place finish in their group with Austria’s equaliser 13 minutes from time in their final group clash.

They have only qualified for the World Cup once in their history, winning one game at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Edin Dzeko , aged 40, is their captain.

The winner of Thursday’s match - which will go to extra-time and penalties if necessary - will host either Italy or Northern Ireland on Tuesday, 31 March for the right to play in the showpiece event this summer.

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