Wales player ratings vs Belgium: De Bruyne double deals major blow to qualification dream

Wales’ hopes of qualifying for next summer’s FIFA World Cup suffered a major setback after a 4–2 defeat to old rivals Belgium at The Cardiff City Stadium.

Craig Bellamy’s side made a dream start when Joe Rodon headed home in the eighth minute, sending the Red Wall into early celebration.

However, two penalties from Kevin De Bruyne, either side of a fine first-time strike from Thomas Meunier, turned the tide and gave the visitors a commanding two-goal lead.

Substitute Nathan Broadhead pulled one back late on to spark brief hope for Wales, but that was quickly extinguished when Leandro Trossard struck moments later to seal the win for Belgium.

The result leaves Wales third in Group J, four points behind Belgium with only two games remaining, meaning they are likely to face another tense route through the play-offs in their bid to reach a major tournament.

Wales player ratings vs Belgium

Karl Darlow – 5

It was a difficult night for Darlow, who could do little about any of the goals, though he did look more assured and commanding than in the defeat to England.

Neco Williams – 5

Williams managed to keep Arsenal forward Leandro Trossard relatively quiet for much of the game and looked to provide an attacking outlet down the right, but he was part of a backline that appeared extremely vulnerable.

Ben Cabango – 5

A couple of difficult moments for the centre-back against Belgium’s dangerous attack, both in the air and with their pace, and he didn’t always look completely confident in possession.

Joe Rodon – 6

Rodon once again proved to be the most consistent defender in Bellamy’s back line, opening the scoring with a well-taken header and delivering a solid defensive display featuring several crucial blocks and clearances.

Ben Davies (C) – 5

It was a tough night for the captain on his 100th cap for Wales, as he struggled to contain the lively and skilful Jeremy Doku, with Belgium finding plenty of joy down his flank. A disappointing end to his centurion appearance as he was forced off through injury.

Ethan Ampadu – 5

The midfielder showed composure in possession and picked out some smart forward passes but was often caught out of position during Belgium’s rapid transitions.

Jordan James – 4

Another midfielder who found it difficult to cope with Belgium’s counter-attacks, James was slow to react defensively and often came off second best in physical battles before conceding a careless penalty for handball.

Harry Wilson – 5

Wilson passed up a big chance to shoot late in the first half, opting instead for an ill-judged pass. On a night when Wales needed inspiration, he couldn’t provide the cutting edge his team required.

David Brooks – 5

It was a quiet night for Brooks, who despite his best efforts, couldn’t find the creative spark needed to unlock the Belgian defence before being substituted just before the hour mark.

Sorba Thomas – 5

He was Wales’ most consistent attacking threat, though he was occasionally wasteful with the final ball. His set-piece deliveries, however, did trouble the Belgian defence at times.

Mark Harris – 5

Harris made an energetic start, with his pressing forcing the corner that produced Wales’ opener, but his influence waned as Belgium took control.

Brennan Johnson – 5

A second-half substitution from Bellamy that failed to have the desired impact on the game, with his most notable contribution coming when he dealt with an unexpected rodent on the pitch.

Nathan Broadhead – 6

A second-half substitution from Bellamy who made the most of his opportunity when it came, but his effort was ultimately undone by poor defending.

Jay Dasilva – 5

A late substitution for Wales, brought on to provide fresh legs in an attempt to salvage a result. He was caught in no-man’s-land for the final goal, allowing Trossard to tap home unchallenged.

Kieffer Moore – 6

A late substitution for Wales whose pressing efforts helped create the second goal, but it wasn’t enough as the side suffered successive defeats.