Wales XI vs Liechtenstein predicted: Kpakio starts with a new-look attack



Rhodri Evans

Wales head into their World Cup Qualifier against Liechtenstein knowing that nothing less than three points will suffice as they continue their push in Group J.

Craig Bellamy’s side arrive weakened by injuries to several senior players – including Kieffer Moore, Aaron Ramsey, Ben Davies and Ben Cabango – but still carry far greater quality and depth than their hosts.

The challenge for Wales will be to translate that superiority into a composed, professional performance away from home, where the onus will be on them to break down a compact defensive block.

Here’s our predicted XI for tomorrow’s match:

Karl Darlow – Goalkeeper

Karl Darlow is set to continue as Wales’s starting goalkeeper, offering experience and steadiness in a match where concentration rather than volume of action will likely define his performance. Having already figured in the qualification campaign, he provides a reliable presence and composed distribution from the back.

Neco Williams – Left-Back

With Ben Davies unavailable, Neco Williams remains the logical choice on the left side of defence. Though naturally right-footed, he has proven dependable at left-back for Wales, combining strong attacking runs with solid defensive work. His energy and ability to join midfield movements will be vital against a side expected to defend deep.

Chris Mepham – Centre-Back

Chris Mepham occupies the right centre-back role, bringing experience and defensive composure. Reliable for both club and country, Mepham’s organisational ability is key, particularly given the injuries to Cabango and Davies. His calmness in possession helps Wales build from the back with confidence.

Joe Rodon – Centre-Back

Joe Rodon partners Mepham and enters the match in impressive club form following a strong period at Leeds United. His leadership, aerial dominance and reading of the game remain central to Wales’s defensive structure. Rodon also scored in the previous meeting with Liechtenstein, giving him added confidence heading into this fixture.

Ronan Kpakio – Right-Back

Ronan Kpakio steps into the starting XI at right-back, offering youthful energy, defensive sharpness and an eagerness to push forward. His athleticism allows him to track transitions effectively, while his willingness to overlap adds width to Wales’s attacking play. With Thomas not selected here, Kpakio provides a fresh, dynamic option on the flank.

Ethan Ampadu – Defensive Midfield

Ethan Ampadu will once again anchor the midfield, offering control, discipline and leadership at the base of the trio. With Ramsey injured, Ampadu’s role becomes central to maintaining structure, recycling possession and breaking up any counterattacks Liechtenstein attempt.

David Brooks – Centre Midfield

David Brooks brings a more attacking dimension to midfield. Naturally creative and inventive on the ball, Brooks injects flair and forward intent, drifting into pockets where he can link with the front three. His ability to operate between the lines helps compensate for Ramsey’s absence.

Jordan James – Centre Midfield

Jordan James completes the midfield and provides the drive and energy Wales need to break down a compact opponent. His box-to-box presence and intelligent movement offer balance, while his ability to carry the ball forward ensures Wales maintain momentum through the middle of the pitch.

Harry Wilson – Right Wing

Harry Wilson starts on the right but will drift centrally to become Wales’s chief playmaker. After scoring in the previous match against Liechtenstein, he remains one of Bellamy’s most potent attacking threats. Wilson’s creativity, set-piece quality and ability to unlock packed defences will be essential given the expected pattern of the game.

Brennan Johnson – Centre Forward

With Kieffer Moore absent, Brennan Johnson leads the line. Although he is not a traditional target striker, his pace, movement and pressing make him a dangerous focal point. Johnson’s ability to exploit space behind the defence and interlink with Wilson and James adds fluidity to Wales’s attack.

Daniel James – Left Wing

Daniel James brings raw speed and directness on the left, continually threatening with runs in behind and aggressive dribbling. His ability to stretch the Liechtenstein defence creates openings for Johnson and Wilson, while his relentless work off the ball ensures Wales maintain pressure high up the pitch.


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