A Great British derby will see England and Wales face off as the group stages in Qatar comes to a close.
England kicked off their campaign looking like potential champions as they thrashed Iran 6-2, however, that bubble was quickly burst by the Stars and Stripes of the USA in a dull 0-0 draw as England failed to break down a stubborn American defence.
Wales meanwhile, have had a poor tournament so far, barely scraping a point against the USA, followed by a late defeat to unfancied Iran. This has left Wales on the verge of elimination and only a huge turnaround will now change their fate, as Gareth Bale admitted: “It will be difficult”.
England seem to have a fully fit roster available for the fixture as James Maddison has returned from injury, while Kyle Walker returning to fitness could see him start in place of Kieran Trippier. After Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount’s below-par display against the USA, don’t be surprised to see Manchester City’s Phil Foden take his place. Wales, meanwhile, will welcome back Joe Allen who featured from the bench against Iran, Danny Ward will start in goal as Wayne Hennessey must see out his suspension following his red card.
England predicted XI | Pickford; Walker, Stones, Maguire, Shaw; Rice, Bellingham; Saka, Foden, Sterling; Kane.
Wales predicted XI | Ward; Mepham, Rodon, Davies; Roberts, Ramsey, Ampadu, Williams; James, Moore, Bale.
Prediction | England 2-0 Wales: England will be confident of winning this game to see them top the group, while also keeping a clean sheet, but don’t expect it to be pretty. Defeat for Wales will see them catch the first flight home after a World Cup to forget.
Jonathan Maze | GWFN
