Euro 2016: Bale desperate to take Wales to Round of 16

Gareth Bale training with his teammates ahead of Russia tie. Twitter
Gareth Bale training with his teammates ahead of Russia tie. Twitter

Internet Desk: Wales can seal a spot in the Euro 2016 knockout stages when they take on Russia in their final Group F game at the Stadium Municipal in Toulouse, but talisman Gareth Bale is wary of the threat posed by a wounded and winless Russia.

A late Daniel Sturridge goal condemned Wales to defeat in the crunch encounter with neighbours England on Thursday, but a 2-1 in their opening match against Slovakia means that Chris Coleman’s side are still in a good position to qualify for the round of 16.

Russia need a win against Wales to avoid a group-stage exit from the tournament. Leonid Slutsky’s injury-hit team frustrated England in their opening game to snatch a late point, but were outclassed by Slovakia in a 2-1 defeat on Wednesday to leave them rooted to the bottom of Group B.

Even a win over the Welsh may not guarantee progression for Slutsky’s side, although four points would likely be enough to see Russia go through as one of the best third-place teams.

Wales forward Gareth Bale has scored in both matches at the tournament so far, but struggled to influence the game in open play against England and is well aware that he is in for another tough game.

Wales lost Joe Ledley midway through the second half against England due to a tight calf, but the Crystal Palace midfielder – who only returned to full fitness from a broken leg last week, is ready and available to play Russia.

Reports suggest that Coleman will pick the same starting XI that began the game against England.

Russia’s injury list continues to build, with Zenit St Petersburg’s Oleg Shatov struggling with a groin injury. The winger is unlikely to be available for the game, with lively Krasnodar attacking midfielder Pavel Mamayev expected to start.