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TOULOUSE. — Gareth Bale said Wales’ Euro 2016 soccer finals fate is in their own hands as they look to qualify for the last 16 in a potentially high-risk match against Russia in Toulouse tonight.

Real Madrid forward Bale has been inspirational in Wales’ European Championship debut, hitting the net in a 2-1 win over Slovakia and again in the 2-1 defeat to England in Lens.

Wales lie second in Group B, one point behind leaders England but firmly in contention for a historic place in the last 16.

A win in Toulouse, where security is set to be tight following shocking scenes of fan violence between England and Russia supporters in Marseille last week, would see Wales guarantee direct qualification – although even defeat could see Wales go through as one of the four best third-placed group finishers.

Bale, who scored trademark free-kicks against Slovakia and England to sit among the tournament’s top scorers after two games, admitted defeat to England through Daniel Sturridge’s injury-time goal was hard to digest.

But the 26-year-old said Wales’ “close group” of players are in high spirits and ready to keep their dream alive.

“Obviously after the (England) game we were very disappointed, especially to lose in that manner,” Bale said on Saturday.

“But we have to forget about it. It’s over. Our fate is in our own hands, and if you’d given us this at the start of the tournament we would have taken it.

“We’re so excited for our last game. Everything’s to play for, the nation’s behind us, as normal, and we will be looking forward to it. — AFP.