Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the international friendly match.
A friendly in Swansea will see Wales looking to extend their positive run, while Canada test themselves against a solid European side. For the hosts it’s a welcome break from the pressure of World Cup qualifying, for the visitors it’s another step in preparing for their home World Cup.
Wales
Wales picked up a vital three points in Kazakhstan, with Kieffer Moore scoring the only goal of the game in the first half. That win kept them in touch with the leaders in their group and preserved hopes of automatic qualification. At home, Wales are far tougher to beat: in their last 10 games on Welsh soil they’ve not lost once. In competitive fixtures they rely on tight defending and free kicks and corners, creating few goals themselves but also restricting opponents to minimal chances. The only previous meeting with Canada came back in 2004, when Wales came out on top.
Canada
After a disappointing Gold Cup, where they went out in the quarter-finals, Canada are still searching for consistency. Their penalty shootout defeat to Guatemala exposed weaknesses, but the September win over Romania (3:0) was an encouraging sign of progress. Away from home the results remain mixed, with poor finishing and defensive lapses often undermining them against stronger opponents.
Wales vs Canada Prediction
Neither side tends to play open, free-scoring football. Wales are traditionally strong at home, and Canada are unlikely to dictate the tempo in Swansea. The hosts look the more organised outfit and should avoid defeat. The most sensible play is on a cautious match with few goals.
