Wales are bracing themselves for an emotional atmosphere when they face North Macedonia in Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier at a time of mourning for the country.
The match in Skopje will be North Macedonia’s first at home since 59 people were killed in a nightclub fire in the town of Kocani earlier this month.
Following a national period of mourning, both sets of players will wear black armbands and a minute’s silence will be held before kick-off.
Having started their campaign with a 3-1 home win over Kazakhstan on Saturday, Wales are unbeaten in their seven matches under head coach Craig Bellamy.
Now they take on a North Macedonia side who have won their past six matches.
“First and foremost, I’d like to send my condolences to the families and also the people of North Macedonia,” said Bellamy.
“We’ve had our own tragedies as well. We know as a country what they’re going through and I’d like them to know that everyone in Wales is fully behind them.
“It’s difficult to talk about football when moments like this happen, but we’re here for it. But at the same time, we’re fully aware of the situation and completely respect the situation. We’re behind you.”
