Post by Taxigirl on Nov 19, 2003 18:34:37 GMT
If Arsène Wenger was a betting man, he would be putting a hefty wager on Wales to reach next year's European Championships with victory over Russia in tonight's play-off second leg in Cardiff.
After leading Arsenal to three successive FA Cup finals, the Frenchman is familiar with the atmosphere the Millennium Stadium can create. He expects the passionate Welsh crowd will "blow the ball in" tonight.
Wenger was an interested spectator over international weekend. He watched both Scotland and Wales gain an advantage against their play-off opponents. But he believes the 0-0 draw Mark Hughes' side brought back from Russia gives Wales a better chance than Scotland's single-goal victory at home to Holland.
"A score of 1-0 is quite good," he said, speaking exclusively to Arsenal.com. "If Scotland can nick a goal somewhere they have a chance. I think they are in a strong position but Wales are even stronger. What an achievement it would be if they qualified.
"I would say Wales are just a yard away from doing it and I am convinced they will do it in Cardiff. If they close the roof and get a good atmosphere in there it will be difficult for the Russians.
"Wales have shown solidity and they have the odd player who can make the difference like Giggs or Hartson on the set-pieces. In fact, for me, it will be a massive result for Russia if they get through now.
"The Russians remain dangerous, so don't write them off. It's just that Wales are so close and the first result was a massive boost for them. They are so near to qualifying and they have not done it for such a long time that I think the fans will blow the ball in.
"The psychological factors are so much in their favour that it can be determinant. I really fancy Wales to do it."
