Craig Bellamy has issued a rallying cry to the Welsh national team, urging them to seize second place in their World Cup qualifying group. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States on the horizon, the stakes are high as Wales navigates the final stretch of their qualifying campaign.

Currently positioned third in Group J, Wales is mathematically still in contention for automatic qualification, trailing group leaders Belgium by four points. However, a more realistic prospect for Craig Bellamy's squad is securing a play-off berth in March, either as group runners-up or via their success in the UEFA Nations League.

Bellamy emphasized the significance of their remaining fixtures against Liechtenstein and North Macedonia. Speaking before the match against Liechtenstein, Bellamy stressed the importance of focusing solely on that game before turning attention to North Macedonia. After a hard fought 1-0 win against Liechtenstein, thanks to a goal from Jordan James, Wales kept their hopes alive for 2nd place in the group.

"We need to win two," Bellamy declared at a squad announcement. "Liechtenstein, we expect to win, and I'm not going to shy away from that. North Macedonia is a different game, but I feel they've been fortunate not to lose. They're games I believe we will have a lot of possession in, and we have to be able to create chances from having that possession."

Following Wales's 1-0 victory over Liechtenstein, secured by Jordan James's goal, their focus now shifts to a crucial match against North Macedonia. This game is a must-win for Wales to leapfrog North Macedonia and improve their chances in the play-off draw in March. Despite the victory, both James and Ethan Ampadu will be suspended for the upcoming match against North Macedonia, adding to the challenge.

Reflecting on the broader picture, Bellamy acknowledged the challenges of World Cup qualification. "There's no easy route," he stated. "But to get to a World Cup isn't supposed to be. If we finish second, then we could avoid a couple of top teams at their grounds, and that's a motivation for us. I just want us to try and win every game."

Wales faced Belgium at Cardiff City Stadium in October, where despite an early lead from Joe Rodon, they suffered a defeat. According to reports, the loss makes it unlikely that Wales will finish at the top of Group J, and automatic qualification hinges on Belgium dropping points. However, Bellamy remains focused on improvement and maintaining a high-pressure, attacking style of play.

In June, Wales demonstrated their dominance with a 3-0 victory over Liechtenstein, with goals from Joe Rodon, Harry Wilson, and Kieffer Moore. Bellamy lauded Wales's control and sharpness in that match, emphasizing the importance of maintaining that level of performance. However, key players will be absent in the next fixture against North Macedonia. Harry Wilson is suspended, and Ben Davies, Ben Cabango and Kieffer Moore are injured. Dan James has returned to the squad following a recent injury.

Looking ahead to the match against North Macedonia, the stakes are incredibly high. A win for Wales would put them in a strong position to secure a play-off spot, keeping their World Cup dreams alive.

As the World Cup qualifying journey nears its climax, Craig Bellamy's call to arms underscores the team's determination to fight for a coveted spot in the 2026 tournament.