Wales will feature in the World Cup, but they’ll need the play-offs

After stealing the show at Euro 2016, Wales will be back again in two years’ time for the 2018 World Cup. However, Chris Coleman’s side will need a play-off victory to get there.

That’s the view on today’s @Ladbrokes Twitter poll, after we asked how you think the Dragons will fare in their qualifying group, which kicks off tonight.

The Welsh were seeded first in Group D, but matches against Austria, Serbia and the Republic of Ireland mean it will be far from easy.

Moldova and Georgia complete the sextet, and it’s the former who Wales open their campaign against tonight.

Looking further down the road however, most of  you think Wales will finish second in the group and reach Russia through the play-offs, with 40 per cent of votes backing that outcome in our poll.

The bookies make it a 9/2 shot Wales qualify through the play-offs.

Second place in our poll is a reflection of just how far the Welsh national team has come in recent years, with 32 per cent saying the Euro semi-finalists will win the group at 2/1 and bag a spot at a first World Cup since 1958.

But with just one automatic spot available, and only eight play-off places going to the nine groups, it’s understandable to see 28 per cent say Wales won’t make it at 4/6.

But until those 10 games are completed, Coleman, Gareth Bale and co are riding the crest of a wave.

The Dragons should get up and running with three points tonight, when Moldova visit the Cardiff City Stadium.

Wales are 2/9 for victory, with Moldova very much the underdogs at 18/1.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.