Wales Expects

There has never been as much hope and expectation in a Wales team in years. Confidence and pride was mounting before April's incredible 0-3 victory over Israel, so you can imagine how the Welsh public feel now as their heroes sit second in a group that contained two teams that looked certain to take both automatic spots.

It's no understatement to say that you would be lucky to see a back page of a paper that didn't contain a huge picture of Gareth Bale on it. However, from what I've seen the Wales squad have looked relaxed ahead of the biggest game most of them have ever played. They were happy to sign autographs and pose for photos with fans at the Vale Resort. (I know this as I was one of the fans!)

What is there to fear? 

Belgium have threats everywhere on the pitch. It has been well documented that they have a golden generation of players, but they have not yet fully clocked onto gear and devastated opponents, especially at the World Cup where they barely git out of first gear before being dumped out.

However, they have an array of attacking talent including the sensational Eden Hazard. If Wales can mark Hazard out of the game and nullify the threat he causes, I think they will be able to handle any attacking problems that could come their way. Ashley Williams and James Chester are more than able centre backs and will have experience of stopping Belgian's premier league stars.

What can Wales exploit?
Home advantage will be a huge boost to Wales on Friday. The game is a sell out so the atmosphere will be immense. Once the Welsh crowd get going and back there team, there is nothing quite like it and because the game is such a momentous occasion, the Wales fans will make the ground rock with noise. The Welsh players must feed off the noise and turn it into positive energy.
There is also an array of talent at Wales' disposal, which often gets mislead into the title of a 'one man team'. Sure, Aaron Ramsey and Gareth Bale will be a handful for any team in world football, but Wales have plenty more than that amongst their ranks. Ashley Williams and James Chester are both established Premier League defenders who adequately deal with incredible talent with their clubs.
I don't think Wales should play with fear. We can stil qualify regardless of Friday's result.

My prediction
My heart says that Wales can pull off a win, but Belgoum have a wonderful selection of talent. Any result is a bonus for us. Last time we played Belgium we shocked the world and git a cracking result, hopefully we do the same again on Froday. 1-1.