In an important Euro 2024 qualifying match, Latvia will host Wales at the Skonto Stadions in Riga on Monday.
Both teams are currently struggling in Group D, with Latvia yet to secure a point and Wales facing an uphill battle to regain their position in the competition.
Latvia’s performance in recent Euro qualifiers has been disappointing. They have consistently struggled since their impressive campaign in Euro 2004.
Their home record reflects their struggles, with nine defeats in their last 11 matches. Having failed to earn any points so far in this qualifying campaign, Latvia is already out of contention.
Wales, once a strong contender in major tournaments, is also going through a difficult phase. They have only managed one win in their last 13 international matches, which was against Latvia in the reverse tie.
A series of setbacks in June, including a shocking defeat against Armenia, has put their qualification hopes in jeopardy.
Despite their recent form, Wales received a stroke of luck with a draw between Turkey and Armenia in their previous fixture.
They now have an opportunity to close the gap on Turkey, who are currently favored to finish second in the group. A victory against Latvia is crucial for their chances of making it to the Euros next summer.
Team News:
Latvia will be missing Vladislavs Gutkovskis, who has been a key player for Rakow Czestochowa but is currently injured.
Striker Roberts Uldrikis has also struggled to find the net, with only one goal in the last year. On the positive side, Janis Ikaunieks has been in good form at RFS, contributing to 15 goals in 15 games this season.
Meanwhile, Wales will be without Luton Town skipper Tom Lockyer due to a last-minute injury.
Manager Rob Page has left out Daniel James, potentially giving Swansea City’s Liam Cullen a chance to make his debut. Aaron Ramsey, one of the experienced players in the squad, is expected to captain the team.
Predicted Lineups:
Latvia:
- Purins
- Savalnieks
- Cernomordijs
- Dubra
- Sorokins
- Jaunzems
- Emsis
- Tobers
- Ciganiks
- Uldrikis
- J Ikaunieks
Wales:
- Ward
- Roberts
- Rodon
- Mepham
- B Davies
- Williams
- Ramsey
- Ampadu
- Wilson
- Johnson
- Moore
Prediction: Latvia 0-1 Wales
Despite their recent struggles, Wales has a chance to secure a victory against Latvia and get back into contention for a top-two finish in Group D.
While they have not won away from home in almost two years, their experience and quality may be enough to secure a narrow victory in this crucial match.