Kazakhstan v Wales - key talking points

Wales resume World Cup qualifying action in far-flung Kazakhstan today.

- By PHIL BLANCHE

Craig Bellamy’s side are currently second in Group J behind North Macedonia.

Here, we looks at the main talking points surrounding the Astana clash.

» Long journey into the unknown

The Wales men's senior team have never ventured to Kazakhstan before, a 3,000-mile trip east and four hours ahead of Cardiff.

Such a marathon journey to central Asia presents significant logistical challenges, and Wales players and staff left their Vale of Glamorgan base a day earlier than is usual for away games to acclimatise in Astana.

Playing on an artificial surface at the Astana Arena will also present its own challenges.

» Bouncing back from defeat