Belgium came from behind to secure a thrilling 4-2 victory over Wales in Cardiff, dealing a major blow to the hosts’ hopes of qualifying automatically for next summer’s World Cup. Despite a spirited start that saw Joe Rodon put Wales in front, two penalties from Kevin De Bruyne, alongside strikes from Thomas Meunier and Leandro Trossard, guided Belgium to yet another commanding win in their qualifying campaign.
Wales began the match full of intensity, spurred on by a raucous home crowd. The team pressed high, creating several early chances before Rodon rose unmarked to head home a Sorba Thomas corner in the eighth minute. The goal ignited wild celebrations, but their joy was short-lived. A VAR check soon awarded Belgium a penalty after Ethan Ampadu was judged to have handled the ball in the box. De Bruyne coolly converted to level the score, swinging momentum in Belgium’s favour.
The visitors capitalised on that shift almost immediately. Jérémy Doku’s dazzling run down the flank created the opening for Meunier, who surged forward to slot a powerful finish past Karl Darlow. From that point, Belgium’s control and experience showed, as they dictated possession and tested the Welsh defence repeatedly. Wales did manage a few moments of promise, with Jordan James and Harry Wilson both coming close before the break, but Belgium’s attacking rhythm remained relentless.
In the second half, Doku continued to torment the Welsh backline, his pace and trickery constantly stretching their defensive shape. Wales’ resolve was briefly reignited when substitute Nathan Broadhead netted to make it 3-2, but Belgium responded almost instantly through Trossard, restoring their two-goal cushion. Any hopes of a late Welsh revival faded when De Bruyne stepped up to convert his second penalty after James conceded another spot-kick with a careless handball.
It was a frustrating night for Wales, who battled valiantly but were undone by lapses in concentration and the clinical brilliance of Belgium’s key players. The defeat leaves Craig Bellamy’s side facing a tough route through the playoffs if they are to secure a place in North America next summer. Meanwhile, Belgium maintained their perfect qualifying record, extending an impressive run that dates back to 2015.
For the Welsh fans, the night ended not with celebration but with disappointment — though they will take pride in their team’s relentless spirit against one of Europe’s elite sides.
