By Tom Bourton BBC Wales News Online

Aled, centre, made the trip to Croatia for a friendly match last year

Aled Williams, a teacher from Carmarthen, arrived in Belgrade on Monday, and explained why he felt he had to be there.

"There's a good feeling among the Welsh supporters at the moment that we could be in Portugal next summer.

"It would be fantastic to see that happening with my own eyes.

"The players appreciate the vocal support they get in games, and it's nice to feel you can make a small contribution to the game.

"It's also in the middle of August and a nice time to have a holiday.

"What better holiday than wandering around a famous city and watching your country play football?"

Everywhere we go it seems that we bump into fellow Welshmen Aled Williams, Wales fan

With Wales ahead of Italy at the top of the group, and Serbia-Montenegro just bedding in a new coach, Mr Williams is realistic about the side's chances.

"Getting three points would be brilliant, but personally I'd be very happy with a point," he said.

"We don't have to win here to get to Portugal."

Mr Williams added that some Serbians had admitted they would rather Wales won the group rather than Italy.

He said there was a good atmosphere among the Welsh fans.

"Rumour has it that between 700 to 800 are out here - but I haven't seen all of them yet.

"Most have flown out from Tuesday to Thursday - only the very committed came out on Monday.

Mark Hughes' side are unbeaten in Group Nine so far

"Having been in Croatia for the summer friendly last year when less than 100 supporters travelled it is completely different here.

"Everywhere we go it seems that we bump into fellow Welshmen."

During the week, Mr Williams has even played in a supporters game against the Serbians in "stifling" heat.

"The match was part of a G�l! appeal to help disadvantaged children in Belgrade - over �500 has been raised."

"Former Wales players Malcolm Allen and Dave Phillips played the second half, and we managed to get the score back to a respectable 9-6 defeat!"

Welsh fans will be hoping the national side fare better on Wednesday night.