Wales vs Montenegro Prediction: 15/10/2024

In the previous edition of the Nations League, Wales struggled in League A, finishing at the bottom of a group that included the Netherlands, Belgium, and Poland. However, they have managed to improve their performance in League B this time around.

They started with a solid 0-0 draw against Turkey, followed by their first victory, a 2-1 win over Montenegro. On Friday, Wales will look to top the standings when they face Iceland. It’s worth noting, though, that Wales did not qualify for Euro 2024 and will not be participating in the tournament.

Montenegro, meanwhile, barely managed to retain their place in League B in the last edition, finishing third in their group with the same number of points as Romania, who were relegated. This year hasn’t been any easier for Montenegro, as they began the competition with two straight losses—2-0 against Iceland and 2-1 against Wales. Facing Turkey on Friday, Montenegro will have a tough task ahead as they try to maintain their League B status. Historically, Montenegro has never qualified for a major international tournament.

Wales will be missing key players for this match, including midfielder Aaron Ramsey (Cardiff, 21 goals in 86 appearances), as well as Ethan Ampadu (Leeds, 54 caps), Rubin Colwill (Cardiff, 9 caps), and forwards Daniel James (Leeds, 7 goals in 53 appearances) and Rabbi Matondo (Rangers, 0 goals in 12 appearances), all sidelined due to injuries or other reasons.

However, strikers Kieffer Moore (Sheffield United, 13 goals in 45 appearances) and Harry Wilson (Fulham, 9 goals in 56 appearances) are available, along with standout winger Brennan Johnson (Tottenham, 3 goals in 30 appearances), who has had an impressive start to the season. Defensively, key players like Ben Davies (Tottenham, 88 caps), Joe Rodon (Leeds, 46 caps), and Neco Williams (Nottingham Forest, 40 caps) will likely form the backbone of Wales’ defense.

Montenegro also has its own absences, including defenders Stefan Savic (Trabzonspor, 9 goals in 73 appearances) and Marko Vesovic (Qarabag, 54 caps), as well as promising young midfielder Adzic (Juventus, 0 caps), all sidelined due to injuries.

Veteran goalkeeper Milan Mijatovic (37 years old, 40 caps) and several other players, including defenders and midfielders, were not selected for this match. However, experienced players like Stevan Jovetic (Omonia Nicosia, 36 goals in 80 appearances), full-back Adam Marusic (Lazio, 61 caps), and midfielder Vladimir Jovovic (Sogdiana Jizzakh, 60 caps) will lead the team. Up front, forwards Krstovic (Lecce, 3 goals in 20 appearances) and Stefan Mugosa (Incheon United, 15 goals in 58 appearances) will be looking to make an impact.

 

Prediction

Montenegro has played 19 matches since their last scoreless draw in the UEFA Nations League, with those games producing a total of 56 goals. Similarly, 19 of Wales’ last 19 Nations League matches have featured over 2.5 goals, so a high-scoring game is expected.

Prediction: Wales 2-1 Montenegro.