Sweden vs Wales, Sun 5 June
With this year’s domestic season drawing to a close, the eyes of fans and players will be looking forward to France in the build-up to Euro 2016. Commencing on Fri 10 June, the French enter the competition as favourites given their recent impressive international record, penchant for attacking football and individual talent of Paul Pogba, Antoine Griezmann and Dimitri Payet. Elsewhere in the competition Wales have a difficult but thrilling group that features Russia, Slovakia and importantly, England. After facing one another in the Rugby World Cup group stages, the scene is set once more to reignite the Anglo-Welsh rivalry.
Ahead of the tournament though, Wales face a trip to Sweden on Sun 5 June for an international friendly. A challenging test, especially if the side field the juggernaut that is Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the result of the game could serve as a precursor of Wales’ prospects in the tournament. Indeed, their form prior to the Euros is something to be desired, recording a single win in six matches – failing to score on three occasions. Contrasted to the performance of England who have won four from six and scored 11 goals, it does not make optimistic reading for the Welsh. However, the performance of Wales during their campaign for Euro 2016 qualification cannot be overlooked. Losing just one game in 10, Wales managed to finish second only to a strong Belgium side that had reached the World Cup 2014 quarter finals.
Counting on the fitness of Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Ashley Williams, Wales will be optimistic of advancing to the knockout stages of the tournament. With 15 goals and 10 assists under his belt for Real Madrid, despite injury, Bale is in excellent form to lead the line for Wales. Nevertheless, keeping seven clean sheets from ten games in qualification, Wales will be just as confident in their defence ahead the tournament – their five-man defence recognised for its impenetrability and stubbornness. With their debut appearance at the Euros ending a 57-year wait to qualify for a major tournament, Wales will strive as far as possible.