Northern Ireland and Wales will both be looking to continue their historical runs when they face off in Paris for a rare Home Nations battle.
Wales are the hot favorites for the match, topping Group B after thumping Russia 3-0 in their final group game. On the other hand, Northern Ireland booked their place in the final 16 through the best third-placed system, escaping Group C with three points.
Here are some key things to consider going into this interesting match.
Home Nations on the big stage
This meeting will be the 35th match between the two sides since Northern Ireland was partitioned in 1953 and surprisingly, Wales have quite a strong record against the Green and White Army – having not lost to them since May 1980. This match, as a result, is huge for a number of historical reasons – Northern Ireland will be looking to break a 36-year and eight game streak and head into the final eight, while Wales will be looking to make the most out of their strong start in France. Combine this with the backdrop of the United Kingdom voting to leave the European Union, and this match could be a great source of pride and a welcome distraction for the Home Nations.
Can Bale Continue His Form?
Gareth Bale has undoubtedly been one of the players of the tournament so far. The Welshman has scored a goal a game in the group stage, and has lead the side from the front, providing a crucial figurehead through which the team can build around and rely on to perform. However, heading into this knockout match, there has to be a question as to whether the Real Madrid player can maintain his form heading into the difficult end of the tournament. A solid performance against the Green and White Army could continue to build the momentum behind the Dragons as they look to secure a spot in the final eight.
Happy To Be Here or Legitimate Contenders?
Northern Ireland have emerged as a surprise side in the Championships to date, sneaking through a group they were widely expected to finish bottom of, after dispatching Ukraine 2-0 and two slim 1-0 losses to Poland and Germany to finish as one of the best third-place teams. Michael O’Neill’s men have brought with them a fantastic fan atmosphere, with supporters becoming a leading example of what the Euros should be about. However, that matters very little if the Green and White Army cannot perform on the pitch and if they can outshine and eliminate the Welsh, it will go a long way to showcasing why Northern Ireland are one of the more surprising teams to come out of this competition.
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