The Daily Star Ireland
Wales welcome Belgium to Cardiff City Stadium for a crucial World Cup 2026 qualifier that could reshape the balance in Group D. Both sides come into this encounter with contrasting narratives — Wales on the rise under Craig Bellamy, and Belgium under pressure to rediscover their rhythm after a turbulent start. With star names returning and recent history favoring drama between these two, this clash promises intensity from the first whistle.
Match Preview
Wales approach this contest brimming with renewed confidence. After a series of gritty performances, including a spirited comeback against Belgium in Brussels earlier in the campaign, Bellamy’s squad looks reinvigorated. Captain Aaron Ramsey’s return to fitness adds composure and leadership in midfield, while Ethan Ampadu, Joe Rodon, and Ben Davies continue to form the defensive backbone. Dan James remains a doubt with an ankle issue, but Brennan Johnson’s pace and flair could provide the attacking spark the Dragons need.
Under Bellamy, Wales have shifted from a counterpunching side to one capable of sustaining pressure through structured pressing and controlled possession. Their resilience was on display in recent friendlies against Scotland and Ireland, where they showed tactical discipline and composure in key moments. The atmosphere in Cardiff will be electric — a fortress that has seen Wales unbeaten in six of their last eight qualifiers.
Belgium, meanwhile, enter the fixture still searching for consistency under Rudi Garcia. The Red Devils’ campaign has been marked by flashes of brilliance offset by defensive lapses. Their dramatic 4–3 win over Wales in Brussels exposed both their attacking might and structural fragility — they surrendered a three-goal lead before Kevin De Bruyne’s late winner spared embarrassment. Garcia has admitted that lapses in concentration have become a recurring theme, something he is desperate to fix before this rematch.
With Youri Tielemans captaining the side and De Bruyne pulling the strings in midfield, Belgium remain a threat to any opponent. Jeremy Doku’s explosive pace and Leandro Trossard’s creativity on the wings will test Wales’ defensive shape. However, the visitors have won just one of their last four away qualifiers, a sign of vulnerability that the Dragons will look to exploit.
Team Form & Recent Results
Wales (Last 5 matches): D W L D W
Belgium (Last 5 matches): W D L W D
Wales have shown steady improvement under Bellamy, with just one defeat in their last five outings. Their defensive record remains solid — conceding only four goals during that stretch. Belgium, despite their elite talent pool, have been inconsistent defensively, failing to keep a clean sheet in any of their last six matches.
Head-to-Head Record
This fixture has become a modern European classic. Wales and Belgium have faced each other eight times in the last decade, with Wales winning twice, drawing three, and losing three. The most iconic meeting came at Euro 2016, when Wales stunned Belgium 3–1 in Lille. More recently, Belgium’s 4–3 home win earlier in this qualifying cycle showcased just how unpredictable this rivalry can be.
Lineups, Injuries & Suspensions
Wales Predicted XI: Ward (GK); Roberts, Rodon, Davies, Williams; Ampadu, Ramsey; Johnson, Wilson, Brooks; Moore
Belgium Predicted XI: Casteels (GK); Castagne, Faes, Theate; Meunier, Tielemans, De Bruyne, Carrasco; Doku, Lukaku, Trossard
Injuries:
- Wales: Dan James (doubt), Neco Williams (out)
- Belgium: Wout Faes (minor knock, expected to start)
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
Bellamy’s Wales rely on a compact 3-4-2-1 setup that thrives on intensity and collective effort. Ramsey’s return allows Wales to dictate play in midfield, while Ampadu’s composure in possession helps transition defense into attack. Kieffer Moore will be tasked with unsettling Belgium’s backline, supported by the pace of Brennan Johnson and Harry Wilson cutting inside.
Belgium’s biggest strength remains their fluid attacking trio. De Bruyne’s ability to create under pressure, combined with Doku’s speed and Lukaku’s physical dominance, makes them dangerous in transition. However, their defensive organization — particularly when pressed — remains suspect. Wales’ set-piece strength could expose this weakness, especially with Moore’s aerial threat.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
- Match Result: Wales (3.75) | Draw (3.50) | Belgium (1.95)
- Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over (1.80) | Under (1.90)
- Both Teams to Score: Yes (1.75) | No (2.00)
Betting Insights:
- Belgium have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last six qualifiers.
- Wales are unbeaten in their last four home matches in World Cup qualifying.
- Four of the last five head-to-head meetings have produced over 2.5 goals.
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
Venue: Cardiff City Stadium, Cardiff
Date: October 13, 2025
Kickoff Time: 20:45 CET / 19:45 BST
Broadcast: Viaplay, RTBF, S4C, FIFA+ (depending on region)
Prediction: Wales vs Belgium, World Cup 2026 Qualifiers
Both sides enter this encounter knowing how pivotal it could be for their qualification hopes. Wales’ home support and renewed confidence make them a tough opponent, while Belgium’s attacking stars can never be underestimated. Expect a tight, high-tempo game defined by key moments of quality — and perhaps a touch of redemption for the hosts.
