Wales crushed the Belarusians, what does this mean for the Czechs towards second place?

Wales crushed Belarus 5-1 in their World Cup qualifying match on Saturday to move into second place in the table. What does that mean ahead of the last round, where everything is on the line?

Wales were clear favourites against the Belarusians. Mainly because the quality of the opponent’s squad is significantly lower than it was a few years back. Some players refuse to represent the country because of their disagreement with the regime.

And the bad mood was evident. Aaron Ramsey scored in the second minute, in the 20th minute it was 2: 0 and as the island team scored three more times in the second half, the visitors left the stadium with a 1: 5 debacle.

With this win, Wales moved into second place in the group, three points ahead of the Czech Republic. In the last round of qualification, Rob Page’s charges will face Belgium, the first team in the FIFA ranking.

Thanks to results in the other groups and Wales and Czech Republic’s first place finishes in the Nations League, both teams are assured of a barrier, yet they will be battling each other from a distance for second place. With a bit of luck, this could guarantee seeding for the play-offs and home advantage.

The cards are clearly laid out. If Wales get at least a point against Belgium or the Czechs don’t win against the Estonians, second place will go to Wales.

The Czech Republic jumping to second place will guarantee a result that moves one of the teams with a goal difference of at least two goals. This means a Czech win by at least two goals and a Wales loss, or a Czech win and a Wales loss by at least two goals.

Source: FIFA