Wales v Norway: Back Haaland to strike again in Nations League clash

Bellamy could find fans' patience wearing thin

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Thursday 01 November, 19:45
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After his summer dalliance with Burnley, Wales boss Craig Bellamy fairly or unfairly lost some credit with the Wales fanbase. After scoreless defeats in Portugal and Denmark, the gloom has deepened a touch, although in the post-Gareth Bale era it's a credit to Wales that they are operating at this level at all.

Bellamy admitted his players had a lot to learn from their Danish defeat, especially how to cope when a physical side brings a ferocious press. Wales have now gone six games without a victory since their 7-1 win over North Macedonia back in November.

Key players Joe Rodon and Harry Wilson are still out, while David Brooks hopes for a recall to the starting XI.

Norway guilty of giving gifts to Portugal

While there's no doubt he had a fine World Cup, it's fair to say that Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland has rarely been completely convincing in top-level football.

The 36-year-old gave the ball straight to Portugal striker Goncalo Ramos for the winning goal in Oslo last time out, as Norway suffered a 2-1 defeat on home soil. The former-Aston Villa keeper then made another huge blunder, only to be rescued by an offside call.

Norway have set the bar high after their run to the quarter-finals of the World Cup, and competing in League A of the Nations League is something they will want to continue. In a tough group, nailing down a place in the final four seems unlikely, but they will at very least want to avoid dropping down to the second tier of this competition.

Hamburg left-back David Moller Wolfe hopes to return after suspension, while Atletico Madrid striker Alexander Sorloth remains sidelined.

Want more Thursday football tips? Get Paul Higham's Nations League best bets

Wales v Norway Bet Builder - Haaland to continue incredible run

Although Norway are fair favourites, I can't get excited about backng them to win at 1.4740/85, so instead I'll put together a Bet Builder.

Erling Haaland has made a remarkable start to the season. He has scored three goals in two Nations League games, and he has already netted seven times for Manchester City across the Premier League and Champions League. His record for Norway is beyond belief, with 65 goals scored in just 57 caps.

I'll back Haaland to score and Wales midfielder Ethan Ampadu to commit at least two fouls at 11/102.11 on the Sportsbook's Bet Builder. Ampadu committed two fouls in Portugal and four in Denmark, and when he's playing for Wales against good sides his foul count often rises.

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