Wales take 1-0 lead into play-off second leg against Albania

Wales head into the second leg of their play-off semi-final against Albania holding a 1-0 advantage from the first leg, putting them in a strong position as they chase a place at next year's tournament in Brazil.

The first-leg result gives Wales a cushion heading into the return fixture, though a two-legged tie of this kind can still turn on a single moment, and Albania will be looking to overturn the deficit on their own end.

Qualification for the tournament would mark a significant achievement for the Welsh national team, which has historically had to navigate difficult play-off routes to reach major international tournaments. The outcome of this semi-final will determine which side advances to the next stage of the qualification process.

Both teams are expected to approach the second leg with the tie very much alive, given that a single goal for Albania would level the aggregate score and shift momentum heading into the closing stages.