Wales set for historic semi-final with Portugal

Wales are preparing for the biggest game in their history when they play Portugal in Lyon on Wednesday for a place in the final of Euro 2016.

Chris Coleman's side have already enjoyed a memorable run to reach their first semi-final at their only major tournament since 1958.

England were the last British team to reach the final of a World Cup or European Championship 50 years ago.

"We'll be the underdogs, but we believe in each other," manager Coleman said.

Jonathan Ford, chairman of the Football Association of Wales, said: "It is history in the making, it's a dream come true.

"These players will run through brick walls for us. This has been a fantastic demonstration of team spirit, team morale, teamwork.

"Sport and culture are the two things that really help us define Wales and the Welsh people."

More than half of the 3m population of Wales are expected to watch their country take on regular Euro semi-finalists Portugal - eclipsing the national television record for a sporting event which was only set on Friday for their 3-1 quarter-final victory over Belgium.

Ranked a record low of 117 in the world in August 2011, Wales could end the tournament in the top six in world football, having already won four of their five games at Euro 2016.

They beat Slovakia and Russia in the group stages, with their only defeat a last-minute 2-1 loss to England. They knocked out Northern Ireland 1-0 in the last 16 before overcoming Belgium - the highest ranked side at the tournament - to set up the meeting with Portugal.

However, they will be without influential midfielder Aaron Ramsey, who is suspended for Wednesday's game.

Arsenal's Ramsey has been hugely influential for Wales, scoring one goal and providing four assists, and was man-of-the-match against the Belgians. Defender Ben Davies is also banned.

"Some of Aaron Ramsey's performances have been off the chart," Coleman said. "Davies' performances have been outstanding. Both players would be a loss to any team.

"But the attitude of the players who haven't played has been fantastic and that has kept the dressing room really strong and kept the vibe really positive."

The Prince of Wales also sent the team a "huge good luck" message, saying: "I'm sure they have got a very good chance of beating Portugal. Everyone here will be keeping their fingers crossed.