Wales Euro 2025 play-offs: Can they make history and end the heartache? | OneFootball

Wales are preparing for one of the most important fixtures in their history this evening when they take on Slovakia in the Euro 2025 play-offs. Unbeaten so far in 2024, just two teams stand between the Welsh and qualification for their first ever major tournament.

Heading into the first match with Slovakia, which will be played over two legs, Wales will be in a confident mood. However, anyone who has followed this journey over the last 10 years will know that heartache is potentially just a kick away.

Wales have taken steps forward in the qualification for most major tournaments in recent years. Coming close to a play-off place for Euro 2013 and the 2015 World Cup, followed up with falling narrowly short for the 2019 World Cup. They also missed out on a place at Euro 2022 on away goals scored against Northern Ireland, despite a vast goal difference. If this wasn’t enough pain, Welsh hearts were broken once again when they were beaten in the final moments of extra time in the play-off final for the 2023 World Cup. Now, Wales face another opportunity to rewrite the script. They are four matches away from reaching the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 finals in Switzerland next summer. Rhian Wilkinson and her 26-player squad are desperate to make history and qualify for their first ever major tournament. But first, Slovakia stand in the way.

The first match takes place away in Slovakia on October 25th, in the picturesque town of Poprad. Four days later, the return leg will be played in the Welsh capital. Should they progress through this, Wales will play in the final against either Georgia or the Republic of Ireland in another two-leg showdown on November 29th and December 3rd.

Wales and their journey so far

Despite being unbeaten in six games, Wales knew their qualification would have to be via the play-offs as a result of their League B status heading into the qualifiers. Regardless of this difficult route, the team has been impressive with standout performances against Kosovo and Croatia. With wins secured through goals galore and clean sheets in both the home and away legs.

These results sandwiched two draws with a strong Ukraine team and will give a good taste of what to expect in this first play-off match. Determination and tactical discipline have been the key attributes. Wales can use these results as a boost and will only look to enhance their performances and confidence.Angharad James will be leading the Welsh side alongside the newly appointed vice captains Ceri Holland and Hayley Ladd. Holland has suffered a slight knock but she is still expected to be fit and ready. Similarly, despite injury concerns and a lack of game time, Jess Fishlock has been called up to the squad. While Fishlock’s leg injury continues to be an issue, it is believed the record-breaking goalscorer will be ready to do what she can to help her team over the line.

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With a great blend of youth and experience, Wilkinson will want to keep the unbeaten run going by sticking to her tactical approach that has been seen strong defensive organisation and quick transitions. Wales will want to have a compact backline and hope to frustrate any attacking movements. For Wales, the use of wide areas will be key with wingers hoping to stretch the Slovakia defence and create space for the likes of Fishlock, Barton and McAteer to exploit centrally.

A closer look at Slovakia

In their six qualifying games with a maximum of 18 points up for grabs, Slovakia only managed to bank four. This is far from what they would have wanted. Their points only came from matches against Israel, and defeats to Serbia and Scotland meant they finished third in their group. Even though this showing was far from impressive, Wales and Wilkinson know not to underestimate the threat poised. Patricia Hmirova has been a standout in Slovakia’s campaign and her experience and finishing ability make her a major threat. Key playmaker Maria Mikolajova is a dynamic midfielder who can contribute to both attack and defence and is another vital weapon for her country. In goal will be Patricia Chladekova, providing a strong last line of defence. She is key to keeping Slovakia competitive in tight matches. A combination of these three players and others will be critical as Slovakia aim to upset Wales and progress.

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Wales Euro 2025 play-offs dream

For Wales, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The team know they are on the cusp of something special. Qualification for Euro 2025 would be an historic first and a major milestone in the development of Welsh women’s football. It would also offer a massive boost to the growing interest in the women’s game across the country. It is about the chance to make history and inspire future generations. The team has been steadily building momentum, and securing a place in the Euros would validate the progress made over the past few years and rewrite the narrative of previous heartbreak. If Wales manage to progress past the semi-final play-off, they would be just one step away from their dream. As the nation watches on, the dream of Euro 2025 qualification feels within reach, and the excitement is only just beginning.

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