Cymru’s FIFA World Cup qualification hopes remain in the balance after a 4-2 defeat to Belgium at Cardiff City Stadium, with the visitors now leading the group in the race for automatic qualification.
Craig Bellamy’s side face a crucial November as they look to overtake North Macedonia in second place and secure a play-off spot.
The Cardiff crowd created a fantastic atmosphere throughout the match, with The Red Wall in full voice from the first whistle. Cymru made a strong start and took the lead after just eight minutes when Joe Rodon headed home from a free-kick.
Belgium were soon level when Kevin De Bruyne converted from the penalty spot following a VAR review for handball against Ethan Ampadu. Moments later, Jeremy Doku set up Thomas Meunier to give Belgium the lead.
Cymru continued to push forward, and Jordan James came close to equalising before the break, forcing Thibaut Courtois into a fine save.
In the second half, Belgium extended their advantage when De Bruyne netted his second penalty after another handball was awarded. Substitute Nathan Broadhead pulled one back for Cymru to make it 2-3, but Leandro Trossard quickly restored Belgium’s two-goal cushion.
The result leaves Cymru with plenty still to play for in their remaining fixtures.
Craig Bellamy will miss the next match against Liechtenstein after receiving a yellow card on the touchline, while Harry Wilson will also be unavailable through suspension. Both will return for the home fixture against North Macedonia on 18 November.
