A detailed recap of the thrilling Wales vs Belgium World Cup qualifier. Belgium overcame an early deficit to win 4-2, with Kevin De Bruyne scoring twice, significantly impacting the Group J standings.
The Wales vs Belgium qualifier on October 13, 2025, delivered a high-stakes encounter that ended in a 4-2 victory for Belgium, solidifying their position at the top of Group J. Despite a spirited performance from the home side, a clinical Belgian team, led by a masterful Kevin De Bruyne, proved too strong.
Wales got off to a dream start when Joe Rodon found the net just 8 minutes into the match, giving the home crowd hope for a major upset. However, the lead was short-lived. Belgium responded swiftly, with Kevin De Bruyne converting a penalty in the 18th minute to level the score. The turnaround was completed just six minutes later when Thomas Meunier scored, putting Belgium ahead 2-1 before halftime.
The second half saw Belgium extend their lead. Kevin De Bruyne, a constant threat throughout the match, scored his second penalty of the night in the 76th minute, seemingly putting the game out of reach for Wales.
To their credit, Wales fought back valiantly. Nathan Broadhead scored in the 89th minute to make it 3-2, setting up a tense final few moments. However, any hope of a dramatic comeback was extinguished almost immediately when Leandro Trossard scored for Belgium in the 90th minute, sealing the 4-2 victory.
The result is a significant blow to Wales’ automatic qualification hopes, leaving them in third place in Group J with 10 points. Belgium, meanwhile, sits comfortably at the top with 14 points, taking a major step towards securing their place in the World Cup.