Wales aim for clean sheet in World Cup play-off first leg

Wales' women's team will try to keep a clean sheet in the first leg of their World Cup play‑off semi‑final against Albania, with goalkeeper Rhian Wilkinson set to make the target. A shut‑out would give the Welsh a strong advantage going into the second match. The tie will decide which side advances to the final play‑off round.

The Welsh women's side will take on Albania on Friday in the first leg of the World Cup play‑off semi‑final, with goalkeeper Rhian Wilkinson set to keep the clean sheet the team’s main target.

A shut‑out would give Wales a valuable advantage heading into the return leg, as the tie is decided on aggregate. Keeping the opposition from scoring can be decisive in a two‑match series.

Wales earned their place in the play‑offs after finishing second in Group B of the qualification tournament. The team has been looking to build momentum as they head into the final stages.

Albania will be eager to overturn any deficit from the first leg, and will rely on their attacking options to create chances. The match will test both sides’ defensive resilience.

The second leg will be played in Tirana, where Albania will host the Welsh. The outcome of the first match will shape the strategy for the return fixture as both teams aim to secure a spot in the next round.