Belgium Stages Comeback to Defeat Wales in FIFA World Cup Qualifier

"Belgium proved that focus, resilience, and teamwork are key to overcoming early setbacks."

Belgium came from behind to beat Wales 4-2 in their FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifier at Cardiff City Stadium. Joe Rodon gave Wales an early lead in the 8th minute with a header from a corner.

Belgium responded quickly. Kevin De Bruyne scored a penalty after a handball by Ethan Ampadu, and Thomas Meunier put Belgium ahead in the 24th minute. In the second half, De Bruyne converted another penalty in the 76th minute. Wales’ Nathan Broadhead scored in the 80th minute, but Leandro Trossard restored Belgium’s two-goal lead.

The match had a brief interruption in the 66th minute when a rat ran onto the pitch, causing a pause while it was chased away.

With this win, Belgium tops Group J with 14 points, ahead of North Macedonia on goal difference. Wales remain third with 10 points, making qualification more difficult. Belgium’s next qualifier is against Kazakhstan, where a win could secure their World Cup spot.