Wales and North Macedonia face off in a crucial World Cup qualifying match today, November 18, 2025, at Cardiff City Stadium. Both teams are currently level on 13 points in Group J, making this a decisive showdown for a play-off spot.
What's at Stake?
Both Wales and North Macedonia have already secured a play-off berth thanks to their performance in the UEFA Nations League. However, a win in this match is vital to secure a home semi-final in the play-offs in March. In an unlikely scenario, if Wales wins and Belgium loses to Liechtenstein, Wales could even top the group and automatically qualify for the World Cup. North Macedonia needs at least a draw to clinch second place in Group J.
How to Watch
For viewers in Wales, the match will be broadcast on BBC Three and BBC One Wales. Kick-off is scheduled for 7.45pm. Details on how to watch in other regions can be found on respective broadcaster websites.
Form Guide
Wales edged out Liechtenstein with a narrow 1-0 victory on Saturday. However, their recent home form has been shaky, losing their last two competitive home matches. North Macedonia, on the other hand, is unbeaten in their seven Group J fixtures. They have shown resilience throughout this campaign, remaining unbeaten away from home since June 2024 and losing only once in their last 15 international matches. However, North Macedonia has not won any of their last three games. The previous encounter between these two teams in March ended in a 1-1 draw.
Team News
Wales faces significant challenges due to suspensions and injuries. Jordan James and Ethan Ampadu are suspended after receiving bookings in the match against Liechtenstein. Ben Davies remains sidelined with an injury, and Aaron Ramsey is still unavailable. As a result, Harry Wilson has been appointed captain for this crucial match.
North Macedonia also has key players missing, with Ezgjan Alioski, Visar Musliu, and Jani Atanasov expected to be absent. However, most of their core team remains, with Enis Bardhi leading the midfield and Milan Ristovski and Darko Churlinov supporting Elmin Rastoder in attack.
Prediction
Given the stakes and the evenly matched nature of the two teams, a tight contest is expected. Wales will be aiming to capitalize on their home advantage, but North Macedonia's resilience and strong away form cannot be discounted.
