Belgium move closer to World Cup qualification with 4-2 win over Wales
Belgium came from behind to beat Wales 4-2 in Cardiff on Monday night and strengthen their position in the 2026 World Cup qualifying group.
Joe Rodon gave Wales the lead after eight minutes with a header from a corner. Kevin De Bruyne equalised from the penalty spot following a handball by Ethan Ampadu, and Thomas Meunier made it 2-1 after good work from Jeremy Doku.
Belgium controlled the first half but missed further chances through Leandro Trossard and Arthur Theate. Wales came close to equalising before half-time, but Thibaut Courtois saved from Jordan James.
"We’re first in the group now, but we must stay humble and finish it off in November"
In the second half, another handball by James led to a second De Bruyne penalty to make it 3-1. Substitute Nathan Broadhead reduced the deficit late on, before Trossard added a fourth for Belgium.
The win, combined with North Macedonia’s 1-1 draw against Kazakhstan, puts Belgium top of their group with a game in hand. Victory next month in Kazakhstan would confirm their place at next summer's World Cup, being held in the US and Mexico
Coach Rudi Garcia, who will miss the next match through suspension, said it was a logical win. “We’re first in the group now, but we must stay humble and finish it off in November.”
Belgium's Kevin De Bruyne celebrates after scoring against Wales © BELGA PHOTO BRUNO FAHY
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