Belgium vs Wales 2025 began their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign in dramatic fashion on Monday night, defeating Wales 4-3 in a pulsating Group J encounter that saw them surrender a 3-0 lead before Kevin De Bruyne came to the rescue in the 88th minute.
Belgium’s Dream Start
Coach Rudi Garcia recalled Premier League talents Leandro Trossard, Amadou Onana, and Youri Tielemans after a 1-1 draw with North Macedonia. The decision paid off early, as Romelu Lukaku converted a penalty for his 89th international goal after De Bruyne’s shot struck Brennan Johnson’s arm.
Moments later, Tielemans doubled the lead, finishing a flowing move involving Maxime De Cuyper. Jeremy Doku made it 3-0 with a brilliant solo goal, leaving the Welsh side reeling and the home crowd in Brussels jubilant.
Wales Mounts Stunning Comeback
Just before halftime, Harry Wilson pulled one back for Wales via a penalty, controversially awarded after Belgian keeper Matz Sels was judged to have fouled Chris Mepham.
In the 51st minute, Wilson turned provider, delivering a perfect pass to Sorba Thomas, who calmly slotted home. Then, in the 69th minute, Brennan Johnson completed the comeback with a powerful header to make it 3-3, shocking the home fans and putting Belgium in a precarious spot.
De Bruyne Delivers Again
Belgium appeared to have restored the lead when Lukaku found the net again, but the goal was ruled out after a lengthy VAR review deemed the ball had gone out of play in the build-up. Yet the reprieve for Wales was short-lived.
With just two minutes of regulation time remaining, Tielemans whipped in a precise cross to the back post, where the unmarked De Bruyne coolly volleyed home to secure all three points.
Bellamy’s First Loss, but Positives Remain
It was a heartbreaking end for Craig Bellamy, who suffered his first defeat as Wales manager. His side came within minutes of setting a national record of 10 matches unbeaten, but there were plenty of positives to take away.
Wales remains in second place in Group J, one point behind leaders North Macedonia and three ahead of Belgium, who have two games in hand. Only the top team qualifies directly for the World Cup, with the runner-up heading into the play-offs.
What’s Next in Group J?
With plenty of football still to be played in UEFA Group J, Belgium will aim to build momentum, while Wales will look to regroup and continue their fight for a World Cup spot.
Group J Standings (as of June 10, 2025)
- 1st: North Macedonia – 4 pts
- 2nd: Wales – 3 pts
- 3rd: Belgium – 1 pt (2 games in hand)
