Cymru are gearing up to build on their promising start under new manager Craig Bellamy as they prepare to face Montenegro in the Nations League tonight (September 9).
In Bellamy’s debut match, Cymru impressed with an adventurous and aggressive style of play, holding Euro 2024 quarter-finalists Turkey to a goalless draw, even after Turkey were reduced to 10 men. This bold approach will be tested again this evening in an away fixture against Montenegro, who are looking to bounce back after a 2-0 defeat to Iceland in their opening match.
Bellamy highlighted the importance of adapting to different opponents. “Different opposition, different threats, different qualities, different weaknesses, so we’ll definitely look to adapt,” he said. “I’ve studied Montenegro closely, including their game against Iceland, and we’re clear on what we want to do.”
Reflecting on the Turkey match, Bellamy stressed the need to maintain intensity, particularly when the team is off the ball. “If we can keep up the same level of play without the ball as we did against Turkey, we’ll be able to make a big impact tonight,” he said. “When I talk about non-negotiables, that’s exactly what I mean.”
Since his appointment in July, Bellamy has injected new energy into Welsh football, sparking excitement among fans, players, and the Football Association of Wales. Cymru’s performance against Turkey only fuelled this excitement, as the team looked completely different from the one that failed to qualify for Euro 2024. They were strong in possession, showing tactical flexibility and a constant desire to attack, while also putting relentless pressure on their opponents when defending.
Although pleased with the performance, Bellamy believes there’s still more to come from his team. He described their play as “outstanding” but added that this would be “the worst Cymru would play” under his leadership.
When is Montenegro v Cymru and what time does it start?
Montenegro v Cymru kicks off at 7:45 pm on Monday, September 9, at City Stadium Nikšić in Montenegro.
Which TV channel will show the game?
The match will be broadcast live on S4C, with coverage beginning at 7:20 pm under the program name ‘Sgorio Rhyngwladol – Montenegro v Cymru’.
How can I live stream the game?
You can live stream the match on BBC iPlayer and S4C Clic. A TV licence and a registered account are required for access.
What’s the team news?
As of now, there are no injury concerns for Cymru. However, Craig Bellamy has indicated that there will be some changes in the starting lineup. Aaron Ramsey is expected to start as a false nine again, while Kieffer Moore, who received stitches after an incident in the match against Turkey, is likely to be fit to play.
Montenegro, who emerged from their 2-0 loss to Iceland without any injuries, will also make some changes, according to their manager, Robert Prosinečki.
What has Craig Bellamy said?
Cymru manager Craig Bellamy stated, “It’s a quick turnaround. There will be changes for Montenegro. We’ll adapt. Turkey’s a different game compared to Montenegro from what I’ve watched of them. So we’ll change and tweak a little bit as well in how we approach that game.”
