Wales v Belgium: Boss Bellamy urges hosts to 'embrace' challenge

Wales Target ‘Special Moment’ in High-Stakes Belgium Showdown

Wales vs Belgium: Bellamy’s Men Sensing a “Special Moment” Ahead of Crucial Clash

The atmosphere is building in Cardiff as Wales prepare to host Belgium in a pivotal World Cup qualifier on Monday night — a match that could define their road to the 2026 World Cup.

Thanks to Belgium’s surprise 0-0 draw with North Macedonia, Wales’ qualification hopes are now back in their own hands. If they win their final three games, starting with this one, Craig Bellamy’s side will qualify directly for next summer’s tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

What’s at Stake?

Group J has become a thrilling three-horse race:

North Macedonia – 12 pts (1 game more played)
Belgium – 11 pts
Wales – 10 pts

The group winner qualifies automatically for the World Cup. The runner-up heads to a nerve-wracking play-off in March — a path Wales famously used to end their 64-year World Cup drought in 2022.

Bellamy’s Belief: “Embrace It, Enjoy It”

Watch: Wales v Belgium qualifying classics

Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is under no illusion about the challenge ahead — but remains optimistic and grounded.

“I believe there’s always a special moment coming,” Bellamy said.

“Cardiff nights, full stadium — this is where Wales have made memories in the past. The fans are used to this energy. So are the players.”

The former Wales captain emphasized embracing the pressure:

“It’s a defining moment, yes, but it’s also about being consistent — win, draw, or lose, we adapt.”

Lessons from the England Defeat

Wales warmed up for the Belgium clash with a 3-0 friendly loss to England at Wembley — a one-sided game where the Dragons conceded three goals in the opening 20 minutes.

While some questioned the timing of such a fixture, Bellamy saw it as vital preparation:

“I quite like losing sometimes. It sharpens focus. That England game gave me belief — this team can go much further.”

Belgium Not What They Once Were – But Still Dangerous

Though not the same side that finished third at the 2018 World Cup or topped FIFA rankings just three years ago, Belgium still boast elite talent:

Kevin De Bruyne
Jeremy Doku
Amadou Onana
Romelu Lukaku

Even in transition, Belgium remain a formidable obstacle. But Wales have beaten them before — and will draw strength from their past home successes in Cardiff.

Match Coverage

Venue: Cardiff City Stadium
Kick-off: Monday, 13 October – 19:45 BST
Live: BBC One Wales, BBC3, iPlayer, BBC Radio Wales, Radio Cymru, BBC 5 Live, and BBC Sounds
Live Text: BBC Sport website & app

What’s Next?

Wales: Must win all three remaining matches to top the group
Belgium: Will be desperate to bounce back after their draw
North Macedonia: Sitting top but with one more game played

A victory in Cardiff would put Wales within touching distance of a second consecutive World Cup appearance — something unimaginable just a decade ago.