Wales’ World Cup Hopes Take Big Hit in Belgium Defeat — But Are They Out of Spark Without Bale

JN Sport | JN Sport Correspondent

Wales’ hopes of qualifying automatically for the 2026 World Cup suffered a severe blow on 13 October 2025, as Belgium came from behind to beat the Dragons 4‑2 at the Cardiff City Stadium. With two games remaining in Group J, Wales are now almost certain to have to rely on the play‑offs rather than securing a direct spot.

The Game - Promise, Penalties, and Late Heartbreak

Wales opened strongly with Joe Rodon heading in from a corner in just the 8th minute. They looked confident, shaping up with intensity under Craig Bellamy’s guidance. But the swings came fast: Kevin De Bruyne equalised from the spot (after a handball by Ethan Ampadu), and Thomas Meunier put Belgium ahead shortly afterwards. Late in the game another penalty , this time following a handball by Jordan James , gave Belgium breathing room, before Nathan Broadhead pulled one back. But Leandro Trossard sealed the win in stoppage time.

Defensive lapses, particularly regarding the handball calls in Belgium’s favour, were costly. Bellamy admitted Wales “needed to win” this game.

Wales’ Campaign So Far - Good Progress, But Fragile

Since Craig Bellamy took charge, the team has shown flashes of progress and resilience. A prime example came earlier in the campaign away to Belgium, where Wales found themselves 3–0 down but launched a dramatic second-half comeback to level the score at 3–3 ,only to concede late and suffer a 4–3 defeat. It was a painful loss, but one that showcased the belief, fight, and more attacking mindset Bellamy has begun to instil in his side

At home they have done well. Wins over Liechtenstein and Kazakhstan have kept them in contention. But consistency has been an issue, and defensive frailties have emerged , especially in high pressure games against top opposition.

The result vs Belgium pushes Wales behind in the race for automatic qualification. As things stand they are third in Group J, needing favourable results and strong performances in their final fixtures.

Bellamy’s Influence - Culture, Character, But Still Searching for the Finisher

Craig Bellamy has already instilled a fighting spirit in Wales. The team plays with more ambition than in many recent campaigns, pressing higher, showing urgency, and not content to sit back even when the odds are stacked. The comeback in Belgium earlier in the campaign is one vivid example of that.

Bellamy’s demand for intensity and belief is audible in every match, and even in defeat, Wales have shown moments where they look dangerous, composed, and capable. Moreover, his ability to integrate younger players while maintaining core experienced figures has given the squad balance. But, as tonight showed, passion alone isn’t enough. Mistakes at key moments, especially in defence or in avoiding avoidable fouls in the box, are undermining Wales’ chances.

The Missing Spark - Who Replaces Bale?

Since Gareth Bale retired (announced in January 2023), Wales have struggled to replace his unique combination of leadership, moments of magic, and goals from tough positions. Bale was more than just a goalscorer; he was the talisman who could change games in an instant, pull defences apart, or provide a moment of inspiration.

Without him, Wales have had promising individual performers , Brennan Johnson, Harry Wilson, Nathan Broadhead among them , but none yet with Bale’s consistency or sheer match‑winning pedigree. In the Belgium defeat, for example, while they created chances and showed fight, Wales lacked a ruthless edge in the final third , someone to take over in the big moments, to force the issue even when the defence is under pressure. The kind of player who might intervene to win a penalty, take a shot from distance that matters, or break a moment of inertia. That spark is still something Wales are searching for.

What Now? The Road to Play‑offs and Beyond

With two group matches remaining , both very winnable if Wales play to their potential , there’s still a pathway through. But expectations must be managed. Belgium now sit at the top of the group with 14 points; Wales have 10. If automatic qualification is slipping, the play‑offs will demand composure, tactical discipline, and a player or two stepping up big time.

Bellamy knows this. After the match he spoke of reviewing the game but expressing pride, while also recognising they “needed to win”. He will want to solidify defensive organisation, avoid costly mistakes , especially handballs in dangerous areas and perhaps find different ways to unlock defences without relying on moments of individual brilliance alone.

Current State of Affairs - A Deeper Dive Underneath the Surface

The loss to Belgium is painful, not just for the immediate consequence of likely needing the play‑offs, but for what it underlines: Wales, for all their growth under Craig Bellamy, are still finding their identity without a talisman. Bale set a standard that remains hard to match. But there is cause for optimism: the culture seems to be changing, energy levels are high, and there are young players pushing to fill gaps.

If Wales can maintain belief, tighten up defensively, and find that spark , whether it comes from one of the younger generation or a senior stepping up , they still have a shot at returning to a major tournament stage. Whether that shot will be direct or through the play‑offs remains to be seen.