Football

World Cup 2022: “Mini history lesson” as Wales and Iran face off

Wales will take on the challenge of Iran in Round 2 of Group B. Both Team Melli and the Dragons will want to secure a win, taking control of their own destiny in this affair.

The 10 am kickoff time is earlier than what Welsh fans are used to and star Gareth Bale believes this is a teaching moment for schoolchildren. Rob Page’s men earned qualification to the ultimate men’s footballing event, which is historical in its own right.  

Gareth Bale

The LA Galaxy star has been part of the national team since 2006 and understands the difficulty in qualifying for the quadrennial event. He hoped that school’s recognize this and will allow their pupils to watch the game.

“Being a 10 am kick-off in Wales, if I was one of the teachers, I’d let them watch the game,” Bale remarked. “I hope they do. It’s a historical moment in Wales, for us to be at a World Cup.

“Some of the parents of kids I know all want to watch the game but don’t want to take them off school.

“So I think a lot of schools will put the game on for them to cheer us on and get behind us.

“It’s a mini history lesson, and hopefully it’ll be a great occasion for all of them.”

Given the longevity of his career and ever availability for the Dragons, Bale is not only the captain but also stands as their highest scorer with 41 strikes. Minutes on the pitch against Iran will add another feather to his cap as he becomes Wales’ most capped men’s footballe.

This feat will see him overtake teammate Chris Gunter, who should make the bench against Team Melli. Bale played down the importance of his personal record and shared that his focus is only on the game and nothing else. 

“I haven’t really been focusing on the cap thing to be honest, just trying to focus on the game.

“On a personal level it’s an amazing achievement, it’s an honour to represent my country so many times.

“But it’s more important that we try and get the victory. Hopefully, we can and it’ll make it even more special.”

Joe Allen and Kieffer Moore under discussion

Joe Allen, another veteran in the Welsh squad had been suffering from a hamstring problem. The Swansea midfielder had been training separately but rejoined the main squad ahead of this fixture. 

Manager Page was pleased with his return to selection and was pleased with his availability for his plans. The 32-year-old will join Kieffer Moore in Page’s plans, who impressed after coming off the bench and helped them in their come-from-behind 1-1 draw. 

“Joe got through his fitness test, so that’s good news,” said manager Page. “He’s (Kieffer Moore) fit and raring to go. We had to meet targets along the way and they’ve met every target.”

Bale was also pleased with his long-time teammate and believes he will be influential in their plans at Qatar 2022. He hailed his ability to impact a game and hopes it will help their cause.

“Joe is a massive player for us and doesn’t get the credit he deserved. He’s a vital cog in the way we play,” the attacker remarked.

“To have him available is a massive boost for us with two games remaining, so hopefully he can come on or start and he’ll do what Joe Allen does best and cover every blade of grass.

“I think he’s shown time and again how important he is and we hope he has a few miles left to go.”


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