De Bruyne double in Belgium win deals huge blow to Wales’ World Cup hopes

Craig Bellamy cited Nostradamus in the buildup to this contest, advising to expect the unexpected given the 4-3 thriller that unfolded the last time these nations met, but while Wales gave Belgium an early fright, two Kevin De Bruyne penalties and a Thomas Meunier strike paved the way to a comeback victory that surely ends the hosts’ hopes of automatically qualifying for the World Cup. The substitute Nathan Broadhead pulled a goal back in the 89th minute but almost immediately Leandro Trossard converted from close range to cap the victory, this time featuring just the six goals. Joe Rodon headed in to give Wales a welcome leg up but Belgium stirred to maintain their pristine qualifying record; their last defeat in a qualifier coming here in June 2015, when Gareth Bale scored to propel Wales towards Euro 2016. Wales will likely have to do it the hard way if they are to reach North America next summer. Continue reading...