England v Wales – Preview, Predictions and Best Bets

The nations last met in the 2022 World Cup as the Three Lions won 3-0. England have won their last seven clashes with the Dragons.

Match: England v Wales
When: Thursday, 09 Oct 2025

England Form

England have had a mixed start to life under the guidance of Thomas Tuchel. Although England have won five of his six matches in charge, the performance levels have been inconsistent. The Three Lions beat Albania 2-0 and Latvia 3-0 in two World Cup qualifiers in March, after the German coach’s appointment.

In June’s FIFA break, England could only beat Andorra 1-0 away despite having 4.00 xG and 20 shots. A 3-1 friendly loss at home to Senegal saw alarm bells ring. The last international break saw a 2-0 home win over Andorra and an exciting 5-0 away win over Serbia. England put up 4.22 xG and seven big chances created in a superb display.            

England Team News

England are set to be without Harry Kane for this match due to an injury. Cole Palmer, Reece James and Noni Madueke miss this international break due to injuries.

Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden have not been selected for this match. Ollie Watkins could lead the line, whilst Djed Spence is tipped to start at right back.

England Motivation

England will go all out to win this friendly. This is a strong rivalry between the nations and this match serves as key preparation for an away qualifier in Latvia next week.

Expect Tuchel’s side to dominate possession. Their usual inverted fullback system is expected with a front five when attacking.

Wales Form

Craig Bellamy took over as Wales coach in July 2024. His first nine games in charge saw no defeats as he brought fresh energy to the nation. They topped their UEFA Nations League group with three wins and three draws in six matches. In March, Wales beat Kazakhstan 3-1 and drew 1-1 away to North Macedonia in two World Cup qualifiers.

After beating Liechtenstein 3-0 in June, they lost 4-3 away to Belgium having come from 3-0 down to 3-3 in a thrilling affair. They responded with a 1-0 win in Kazakhstan in another qualifier before losing 1-0 at home to Canada in their last match, a friendly in September.

Wales Team News

Speedy winger Daniel James has withdrawn from this match due an injury. Veteran midfielder Aaron Ramsey is also unavailable due to an injury concern.

Coach Craig Bellamy has many EPL-based players to call upon. Brennan Johnson will be key down the right flank. Bournemouth’s David Brooks could play as a false nine as Wales lack quality option up front.

Wales Motivation

Wales face Belgium four days after this match. That is a key World Cup qualifier which is sure to prove a distraction.

Craig Bellamy plays an open, attractive style with lots of pressing. His Wales side will not sit back and will try to pull off a shock win.

Key Stats

• England have won 5 of their 6 matches under Thomas Tuchel
• England have won their last 7 matches vs Wales
• Wales have lost just 2 of their 12 matches under Craig Bellamy

Verdict

A tight match awaits. Wales’ big upcoming game may give England the edge in a 1-0 or 2-0 win.

Best Bet: England win and Under 3.5 goals at 2.00

Alternate Bet: England win to zero at 1.93

Correct Score Tip: England 2-0 Wales at 5.00