BELLAMY: WINNING TONIGHT IS VITAL

WALES BOSS STAYS UPBEAT AHEAD OF WORLD CUP SHOWDOWN

- PHIL BLANCHE

CRAIG Bellamy admits finishing second in their World Cup qualifying group is “massive” for Wales with the carrot of a home semifinal in the March playoffs.

Wales host unbeaten North Macedonia in their final qualifier tonight in a battle for the runners-up spot behind Belgium, who are expected to complete the formalities of topping Group J against Liechtenstein in Liege.

North Macedonia's superior goal difference means Wales have to win to climb above them and get home advantage in the playoffs.

If they do not, Wales will be among the bottom seeds in the playoff draw and left with a tough assignment away to a pot one nation which includes Italy.