Wales 7-4 to reach World Cup finals in Russia

WALES won 2-0 away to Moldova on Tuesday to climb above Ireland into second place in World Cup qualifying Group D but they might have to win both of their October fixtures – away to Georgia and at home to the Irish – to secure a berth in the playoffs.

Chris Coleman’s side are ranked ninth among the second-placed teams and, as things stand, they would miss out on a place in the playoffs.

However, Wales would almost certainly climb those rankings if they could add a further six points to their tally.

Wales are 7-4 with Sky Bet to qualify for Russia 2018 and Ireland are 9-2 shots after dropping to third with a 1-0 loss at home to leaders Serbia.

Ireland are targeting wins from their last two games, at home to Moldova and away to Wales, to reach the playoffs but they will take on the Moldovans without suspended pair Robbie Brady and James McClean.

Argentina are facing a battle to qualify from the Conmebol section after a 1-1 draw at home to Venezuela which leaves them in fifth place.

The Albiceleste are in a playoff position and will need a strong finish when they play at home to Peru and away to Ecuador next month.

Reigning South American champions Chile are in even bigger trouble in sixth place after a 1-0 loss away to Bolivia.