Wales predicted lineup vs Iran

Wales started solidly in their first World Cup in 64 years by taking a point against the United States.

But that will count for nothing if they can’t back it up with a better result against Iran in their second game. Anything else leaves them with a huge uphill battle in the hunt for a place in the knockout rounds given that the group’s toughest game against England will still be to come.

Here’s a look at the starting XI that Rob Page could pick for Wales.

GK: Wayne Hennessey – Only made one save against a United States side that didn’t exactly pepper the Wales goal with shots.

CB: Chris Mepham – Was good on the ball in the first game when it came to short passes but was much less accurate with longer passes.

CB: Joe Rodon – Had hardly played at club level for Rennes over the past month because of a suspension and then illness, but managed 90 minutes on Monday.

CB: Ben Davies – Had a couple of attempts on goal and offers a good threat at set-pieces.

RWB: Connor Roberts – This is already his second international tournament as a starter.

CM: Aaron Ramsey – Has so much to prove after a disappointing few years at club level.

CM: Joe Morrell – The Portsmouth midfielder could come into the starting XI if Ethan Ampadu isn’t fit enough to start after coming off against the USA.

LWB: Neco Williams – Found out that his grandfather had passed away in the days leading up to the United States game and is now playing in his memory.

RF: Gareth Bale – Continues to be a Wales legend after scoring the late equaliser from the penalty spot, the first Welshman to score in a World Cup game since Terry Medwin 64 years ago.

ST: Kieffer Moore – The giant striker didn’t start against the Americans but came off the bench and could benefit from Harry Wilson carrying a slight injury.

LF: Daniel James – Started the first game in a central role but probably keeps his place for this game by moving to the left given that Harry Wilson is a potential injury doubt.