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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Ian Mitchelmore

How the World Cup draw works and why Wales are in pot four

Wales are in the hat for the 2022 World Cup draw.

Rob Page's men still need to win their play-off final in June to book their place at the Qatar tournament, although with the big game being delayed, Wales find themselves among the teams in the hat on Friday.

Here's everything you need to know about the draw.

What time is the World Cup draw?

The draw takes place in Doha on Friday, April 1. It starts at 5pm UK time.

Read more: Rob Page's dressing room message to Wales players as Wayne Hennessey opens up on touching Gareth Bale moment

How can I watch the World Cup draw?

You can watch it live here. Alternatively, you can follow it live via our blog on WalesOnline's Football page.

Which teams are in the draw?

Pot one: Qatar, Brazil, Belgium, France, Argentina, England, Spain & Portugal.

Pot two: Mexico, Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, Uruguay, Switzerland, USA & Croatia.

Pot three: Senegal, Iran, Japan, Morocco, Serbia, Poland, South Korea, Tunisia.

Pot four: Cameroon, Canada, Ecuador, Saudi Arabia, Ghana, Wales/Scotland/Ukraine, Costa Rica/New Zealand, Australia/UAE/Peru.

How does the draw work?

The teams will be split into eight groups of four, with all groups featuring one country from each pot. Groups will contain no more than one team from each confederation, aside from Europe. A maximum of two UEFA sides can be included in a single group.

Do you think Wales will qualify for the World Cup in Qatar? Have your say in the comments section below.

Why are Wales in pot four?

Due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, play-off matches in Wales' path have been delayed. Scotland are due to face Ukraine in the semi-finals in June, with the winner travelling to Cardiff for the final.

Given that FIFA were unable to determine official rankings for the sides still awaiting their play-off fate, all teams still in the mix to qualify were automatically placed in pot four.

When is the World Cup?

The tournament takes place between November 21 and December 18 this year.

What has Rob Page said?

"Like every other Welsh supporter, I'll be watching the draw. I'm really excited," he said after the 1-1 draw with Czech Republic.

"I've just said to the group of players, what an unbelievable camp we've just had, and now there's good times to come for this group. I'll be full of excitement watching the draw and I'll be looking forward to the build-up into June."

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