Wales are one result from a place at the tournament in Brazil, but a slender first-leg lead means the play-off semi-final is far from settled.
Wales are 90 minutes from keeping their Brazil dream alive. They take a 1-0 lead into the second leg of their play-off semi-final against Albania, and the job is only half done.
A one-goal cushion is the kind of advantage that can feel either comfortable or fragile, depending on how the next match unfolds. Play-off ties are unforgiving, and Wales have been reminded of that history ahead of the return fixture. One lapse, one set piece or one momentum swing can erase a first-leg lead.
Albania know exactly what they need. They must score and stay disciplined at the back, and they will push hard to turn the tie around in front of their own crowd. Wales will want to stay compact, manage the game's key moments and strike if space opens up.
The stakes are clear. Win the tie and Wales move closer to a place at next year's tournament in Brazil. Lose it, and a promising first leg becomes a missed opportunity. The second leg should be tense, tight and decided by fine margins.
