The two results that least suit Montenegro are also the most realistic ahead of tonight's clashes in qualifying group G - Switzerland in Basel has a great chance to beat the written-off Bulgaria, just as England is a huge favorite against the also written-off Wales.
The defeat of Montenegro on Friday evening in Cardiff revived the hopes of the Swiss national team that they can make a big "comeback" and eventually take second place in the group, which brings them into the play-offs for the European Championship. Before the first of three games in which they need victories, the Swiss did not only send threatening messages to the Bulgarians. They also "stung" Montenegro.
- I think that after the 1:1 draw with Bulgaria and the defeat in Wales, the euphoria no longer resides in Montenegro. We have a chance to record three victories until the end and win second place, that is our absolute goal - said Switzerland coach Otmar Hitzfeld ahead of the clash with the Bulgarians.
There may be no more euphoria in Montenegro, but neither is there in Switzerland - on the eve of the clash with the Bulgarians at "St. Jakob Park" sold only 15 thousand tickets, which is half of the total capacity.
- We definitely need support from the stands. The fans have always been our 12th player. I hope that many will change their minds and will still come to the stadium. And if there are 20 thousand, I ask them to cheer as if there were 40 thousand - said the popular "general".
To finish second in the group, the Swiss must beat Bulgaria at home, Wales away and Montenegro at home.
- We played 2:2 at "Wembley", but we were relieved there. It will be more difficult for us tonight, we have to deal with the role of favourites. I believe that we will manage to control the pressure - added Hicfeld.
The Bulgarians arrived in Basel without a chance to be second, because two rounds before the end of the qualification they have six points less and a weaker mutual duel than Montenegro.
However, he will not give up, says coach Lotar Mateus.
- Players should always have a motive when wearing national colors.
Asked who has a better chance of finishing second, Montenegro or Switzerland, Mateus predicted tonight's opponent.
- Friday was a wonderful day for Switzerland. She is now the favorite to be second - Mateus said.
The English are waiting for Wales in London, but whatever they do - they will need a point in Podgorica on October 8 to confirm their place in the European Championship. Fabio Kapela's team will try tonight to escape Montenegro to plus six, with a game more, but also to record the first victory on their field since September of last year. After beating the Bulgarians (4:0), the English drew with Montenegro (0:0), Ghana (1:1) and Switzerland (2:2) at Wembley.
- At home, we play harder away from home because the opponent usually defends. But one goal changes the game, I hope it will be like that tonight - said Fabio Capello.
The Welsh arrive at "Wembley" without the suspended Bellamy and Vaughan, but with the belief that they can make a first-class surprise.
- The victory over Montenegro gave us confidence and we really believe that we can get a good result here - said Gareth Bale.
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