Wales began their 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign with a 3-1 defeat by Belgium in Leuvren.
Despite taking an early lead through Harry Wilson, Belgium’s quality told as Kevin De Bruyne, Thorgan Hazard and Romelu Lukaku saw the hosts come from behind to win.
This was the first time that two teams had faced each other since Wales major upset at Euro 2016, winning 3-1 in that quarter-final tie.
Wales got off to a worrying start after one of their key and most experienced players in Joe Allen went off after seven minutes. This would eventually have a major outcome on the game.
Wales took an early lead through Harry Wilson
However, Wales struck first through a goal from Wilson. A brilliant, fast-paced counter-attack and with plenty of one-touch passes led to Gareth Bale, with his weaker foot, playing in a fantastic through ball for Wilson. The Cardiff City player then used his left foot to neatly finish past Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
Five minutes later, Belgium had their first big chance of the match. De Bruyne whipped in a brilliant cross along the six-yard line. It skimmed past several Belgian players before Lukaku, who had the whole goal to aim for, missed it entirely as it went sailing over the bar and into the stands.
Wales’ optimism soon diminishes by half-time
In the 21st minute, Belgium had their equaliser. Attacking around the Welsh penalty area, Hazard played a sideways pass to De Bruyne who – with a great first touch – was able to get the ball out of his feet. From there, and with no Welsh players around him, he found the space to drive a brilliant effort into the bottom corner from 18 yards out giving Wales goalkeeper Danny Ward no chance.
Six minutes later, the Red Devils took the lead. A cross from Thomas Meunier should have easily found the head of Wales defender Connor Roberts but he slipped allowing Hazard to head home past Ward.
Throughout the first half, Belgium were in complete control. Wales were unable to build any form of possession, and any form of attack, due to the brilliant work of the Belgian defence and midfield.
At half-time, despite the early goal for Wales, Belgium were clearly dominant.
Belgium continue to dominate after half-time
Wales however, started the second half the better of the two teams creating a series of half-chances – including an audacious bicycle kick from Bale, which was reminiscent of his goal in the 2017-18 Champions League final for Real Madrid.
In the 71st minute, Belgium were awarded a penalty as sprang into attack at a speed in which the Welsh defence couldn’t handle. From there, the Red Devils crossed a ball into the box, which caused havoc. Wales defender Chris Meopham lazily stuck out a leg which caught attacker Dries Mertens. Lukaku converted from the spot to all but wrap up the tie and make it 3-1.
Despite the result, Wales can hold their heads up high after going toe-to-toe with Belgium for large parts of the game and can use this in preparation for their tie against qualifying rivals, the Czech Republic.
By Barnaby Page
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