The Wales national football team is once again on the brink of major tournament qualification as they prepare for another high-stakes play-off clash at the Cardiff City Stadium.

For the third consecutive campaign, Wales are just two home victories away from securing a place at a major tournament. Having successfully navigated the play-offs to reach the 2022 World Cup, they narrowly missed out on UEFA Euro 2024 at the final stage.

Now, attention turns to Thursday’s semi-final against the Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team. Victory would set up a decisive final on home soil against either the Italy national football team or the Northern Ireland national football team, with a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at stake.

Wales’ consistent presence at this stage marks a significant shift from their past, having endured a 58-year absence from major tournaments prior to their breakthrough qualification for Euro 2016.

Head coach Craig Bellamy believes his squad is well prepared for the pressure of the occasion.

“We’ve done everything we can,” Bellamy said. “You always feel calmer as it goes along. The more you tick things off, the more confidence you build.

“If you go into an exam without preparation, you can’t expect results. But these players have done the work, and they’re used to moments like this.”

With home advantage and growing experience in high-pressure fixtures, Wales know exactly what is required as they look to keep their World Cup dream alive.