The day has finally arrived.
Wales finally kick off their first major football tournament since God was a lad this afternoon. With the game against Slovakia rapidly approaching, here’s everything you need to know about the Group B opener.
Where is it being played?
The Stade Matmut Atlantique, formely known as the Stade de Bordeaux, plays host to Wales’ opener. Home to Girondins de Bordeaux, 42,000 will be in attendance for the match with Slovakia.
What time’s it on and where can I watch it?
The third game of the tournament, Wales and Slovakia kicks off at 5pm – sandwiched between Albania vs Switzerland at 2pm and England vs Russia in the evening. BBC are covering the match, as are S4C.
Can Wales get off to a winning start?
As is often the case with tournament football, it’s hard to say. Wales weren’t too impressive in their last pre-tournament friendly against Sweden, and you can’t read too much into the previous meetings between the two meetings over eight years ago – a 5-1 win for Slovakia in Cardiff and a 5-2 win for Wales in Trnava.
Dare we say it, plenty depends on Gareth Bale. As much as Wales’ qualification proves that they’re not ‘just a one man team’, the fact remains that his contribution to their campaign is a significant factor in them reaching France.
Who do Wales need to keep an eye on in the Slovakia team?
In the same way Gareth Bale is a huge factor in Wales reaching France, the same can be said of Napoli midfielder Marek Hamsik. Their top scorer in qualifying, keeping him quiet will go along way to getting a positive result for Chris Coleman’s side.
What’s the team news?
Wales
Despite breaking his leg a month ago, Joe Ledley is believed to be in contention for the Welsh. Fellow Joe, Liverpool’s Allen is also set to recover from a knee problem on time for kick-off. Hal Robson-Kanu has also declared himself fit having missed Wales’ four friendly matches. Nottingham Forest midfielder David Vaughan may not be fit however, having missed training earlier in the week.
Slovakia
Tomas Hubocan is the only injury concern for Slovakia. The left-back has been struggling with a toe injury and could be replaced by Dusan Svento if he doesn’t pass a late fitness test.
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