Impressive wales fall 3-1 to Belgium in Leuven
Wales’ World Cup qualifying campaign started in defeat as Belgium came from a goal down to seal a 3-1 victory in Leuven.
In their first meeting with Belgium since beating them 3-1 in the quarter-finals of Euro 2016, Wales took an early lead as Harry Wilson, who was played in by Gareth Bale, finished a slick move
However, Belgium roared back as goals from Kevin De Bruyne and Thorgan Hazard turned the game on its head and sent Roberto Martinez’s side in at half-time with the lead.
Romelu Lukaku ensured victory for the hosts in the second half, converting from the spot after Chris Mepham brought down Dries Mertens, as Wales suffered their first competitive defeat in 12 matches.
Victory sees Belgium, who record a 13th straight competitive win at home, into second in Group E behind Czech Republic, who face Wales at the Cardiff City Stadium as their World Cup qualifying campaign continues next Tuesday.
Wales suffered an early blow as Joe Allen’s international return lasted barely seven minutes. The Stoke midfielder appeared to suffer a hamstring injury and was replaced by Joe Morrell.
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However, it didn’t knock Wales off their stride as they were ahead three minutes later following a scintillating team move. Some slick one-touch passing opened up the Belgium defence and Bale released Wilson, who finished superbly, sweeping the ball past Thibaut Courtois for his fifth international goal.