5 teams nobody expected to qualify for Euro 2016

#3 Wales

Coleman’s Wales often referred to the late Gary Speed’s contribution upon qualification for France

Mark Hughes, Ian Rush, Gary Speed, Ryan Giggs, Gareth Bale. The presence of a nation behind these talents on this list may seem baffling, but it isn’t. For all their proximity to England and ability to produce talents, Wales were often guilty of failing to come together as a team when it mattered. Perceptions began to change around 2010, with the likes of Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Ashley Williams heralding the call for a ‘golden generation’, sparking interest in the side’s fortunes.

Arguably being handed an easy group, Wales still went on to beat group rivals Belgium over the two legs, though Marc Wilmots’ side eventually topped the group. Goalless draws to sides like Bosnia-Herzegovina and Israel were indeed worrying signs which manager Chris Coleman will be keen to address.

Crucial to the success was Ashley Williams’ defensive leadership, which marshalled young talents like Jazz Richards and Ben Davies to give away a meagre four goals, including just one against an attack-heavy Belgian side over two legs. A shock 2-0 defeat to Bosnia-Herzegovina towards the end of the campaign means that the Welsh may need to guard against lapses in concentration.

Much will hinge on Coleman’s ability to get Gareth Bale to replicate his club form in France, and to ensure Sam Vokes and other forwards share the load with Bale if Wales are to pull off a few shocks next year.