Rhian Wilkinson has named a clean sheet as Wales' first target in Friday's Women's World Cup play-off semi-final first leg against Albania in Shkoder. The match takes place at the 16,000-capacity Loro Borici Stadium, with the return leg set for next Tuesday in Llanelli.
Wales beat Albania twice during World Cup qualifying in April, winning 4-0 at home and then grinding out a scrappy 1-0 victory away. Wilkinson said a positive first leg would come from a clean sheet and a strong performance, stressing the importance of delivering on the road before repeating the effort at home.
Wales are without nine regular squad members through injury, including Ceri Holland, who has been their most influential performer since Jess Fishlock retired. Only back-up keeper Poppy Soper of the injured players was not a likely contender to feature in the ties. As a result, the squad has a youthful look, with six uncapped players and several others with minimal international experience.
Wilkinson said the injuries were out of the norm but that Wales are well placed to cope thanks to their policy of inviting young players to train with the senior side. She said the inexperienced players are absolutely ready for high-stakes games. Wales topped their qualifying group, though their away form was less convincing, with draws against the Czech Republic and Montenegro. Albania are ranked 68th in the world, 37 places below Wales.
উৎস: BBC Sport Football · সারাংশ: HeadlinesBriefing