Women’s World Cup qualifier: Ryan Wilkinson reveals Wales team plane hit by lightning

After struggling to reach Montenegro, Wales could only draw against opponents they were expected to beat with little to spare on a miserable evening at the Gradski Stadion.

A win would have put Wilkinson’s side in pole position at the top of their group, but instead they now need to beat the Czechs if they are to finish first and therefore secure a more favorable route to the play-offs later this year.

“I think whether you’re first or second, there’s luck of the draw,” Wilkinson said.

“Yes, you have a little better chance to finish first, but I think momentum-wise and confidence-wise – and to really recognize the growth the players have made over the last few years – I think it’s important that we win this game.

“It’s a massive game and I think it’s a challenge against a team that is our equal in almost every single category.”

Wales and the Czech Republic are level on points with three wins and two draws from their five group matches so far.

A Czech win in Cardiff would see them go top, while a draw would also be good enough for Jitka Klimkov’s side because of their goal difference.

While the Czech Republic and Wales are both already guaranteed play-offs, claiming first place would mean skipping the League A side in the semi-finals in October.

Wilkinson says he has a fully fit squad to play – apart from Hayley Ladd, who has not been called up this window due to injury – Carrie Jones and Lily Woodham are both in line to reach 50 Wales caps on Tuesday.