Wales suffers heartbreaking loss to Belgium after dramatic comeback
- Wales played Belgium in a World Cup qualifying match in Brussels on June 9, 2025.
- Despite trailing 3-0, Wales made a remarkable comeback to equalize the game.
- Belgium ultimately secured victory with a late goal from Kevin De Bruyne, leaving Wales disappointed.
In Brussels, Belgium, on June 9, 2025, Wales faced off against Belgium in a crucial World Cup qualifying match. Wales came into the match at the top of Group J but was aware that Belgium, the group’s highest-ranked team, posed a significant threat. Early in the game, Belgium took control with three quick goals, putting Wales in a critical position. Despite Wales fighting back and equalizing, they fell short as Kevin De Bruyne scored the decisive goal in the dying minutes of the match. The match began with a flurry of activity from the Belgian side, with Romelu Lukaku converting a controversial penalty after a handball was called against Wales. Following this, Youri Tielemans and Jeremy Doku added to the scoreline, leaving Wales trailing 3-0 before halftime. Despite the odds against them, the visitors did not give up. Just before the break, Harry Wilson scored from the penalty spot, giving Wales a glimmer of hope and reducing the deficit to two goals. The second half saw an energized Wales side take control of the game. Goals from Sorba Thomas and Brennan Johnson turned the match around, leveling the score at 3-3. The comeback showcased Wales' resilience and determination, thrilling their 4,500 fans who traveled to support their team. However, as the clock wound down, Belgium's experience and skill re-emerged, with De Bruyne finding the net just two minutes before full time, dashing Wales’ hopes of securing at least a point from the encounter. This defeat not only marked Wales’ first loss under manager Craig Bellamy, but it also cost them the top spot in Group J as North Macedonia won earlier in the day. The match was filled with emotional intensity, with both sides engaged in a tactical battle. The performance of both teams highlighted the high stakes involved in World Cup qualifying, with Belgium proving their mettle after a disappointing draw against North Macedonia in their previous match. As Bellamy faced his first loss in charge, he reflected on the performance, recognizing the areas for improvement but also the fight shown by his players. Meanwhile, for Belgium, the victory serves as a vital statement in their quest to qualify for the World Cup, showcasing their attacking prowess and depth.