Five reasons Wales can qualify for Euro 2016
Wales have failed to reach a major tournament since 1958, but things are looking up for Chris Coleman's men ahead of their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign.
A Paul Bodin missed penalty in 1993 meant they missed out on reaching the 1994 World Cup in the USA, the closest they have come in three decades to getting to achieving their goal.
Things are now different, however, giving Wales a realistic prospect of making it to France in two years time.
Here we look at five reasons why Wales are able to compete with the continent's elite once more.
Gareth Bale
For 20 years of international disappointment Ryan Giggs was the great hope for the nation, but even his majestic ability was not enough to take them to a major tournament. Their current equivalent is Real Madrid winger Gareth Bale, a man whose ability is arguably greater than that of the Manchester United legend.
Bale set Spanish giants Real Madrid back 80million euros a year ago, but he has lived up to expectations in La Liga, even scoring in his side's Champions League triumph in May. Having garnered plenty of experience playing abroad and adjusting his physique to become a powerful footballing machine.
His added knowledge and quality will be a major asset for Coleman who may allow Bale to operate against Andorra on Tuesday night. Bale will be inspire the talented younger members of the Wales squad, something the country are not lacking in. Obviously, one man cannot make a team, but the influence of Bale can win matches for the Welsh.
Aaron Ramsey and Joe Allen
Two of the Welsh midfield will be Champions League regulars this season, in the form of Arsenal's Aaron Ramsey and Liverpool's Joe Allen. Ramsey has become a key component at the Emirates over the past year, scoring a collection of crucial goals in a team containing three World Cup winners, but the Welshman is a first choice pick when fit.
His tenacity, energy going forward and prowess in the box make him integral to what Coleman is trying to create. His all-action style is well complimented by Allen's assured nature, aided by learning his trade at the feet of former England captain Steven Gerrard who will surely pass on plenty of international experience at Melwood, Liverpool's training ground.The combination of Ramsey and Allen will worry the best teams in Group B, who will need a plan to contain the unquestionable quality on show for Wales.
Qualifying group
The 2016 European Championships will controversially feature 24 teams, allowing for a wider breadth of nations to qualify for the continent's major international competition. Wales could easily still finish third in their qualifying group and progress to France in two years times.
World Cup quarter finalists Belgium are favourites to top the group, which is unsurprising considering the quality at their disposal. Bosnia-Herzegovina, who also appeared at the World Cup in Brazil, will be the second biggest test for Coleman's men.
With an in-form trio of Bale, Ramsey and Bale, Wales should be able to challenge Bosnia-Herzegovina, led by Edin Dzeko, for second spot in qualification. Other opponents Cyprus and Israel are certainly beatable for Wales and will not be feared in their matches - a win at home and draws away against these two would see them at least finish third, something Wales have the capabilities to do. Tuesday's opponent's Andorra haven't picked up a point in nine years, so aren't a major threat.
Momentum
Starting against the minnows of Andorra - a game Wales expect to win with ease - should give them a platform to build on for the rest of the qualifying process. If, as predicted, they beat the international minnows, it will boost the confidence of a Wales team who struggled for consistency.
Two home games follow: first up is the talented Bosnia-Herzegovina team, who Wales will feel they can match on their own turf, then a game against rivals for third place Cyprus, which if they can win will put Wales in a good position to take third spot, at least. Avoiding a potentially confidence-sapping clash with Belgium could be key to Wales' long-term success.
Strength of Welsh football
Last season was the first time a Swansea-Cardiff derby took place in the Premier League era, showing a resurgence in club football in the nation. Admittedly, neither side is awash with Welsh internationals, but the feel-good factor competitive club teams offer allows for a boost to the fans and players alike.
On top of that, having players from the likes of Champions League clubs Real Madrid, Arsenal and Liverpool can potentially breed a mentality of success within the national set-up. Swansea's sustained periods in the Premier League has made the careers of Ashley Williams, Neil Taylor and recent Tottenham signing Ben Davies, who will all feature in the qualifying campaign.