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

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...

Nick Woltemade seals Germany’s win over spirited Northern Ireland

Nick Woltemade seals Germany’s win over spirited Northern Ireland

Anybody seeking confirmation that Florian Wirtz was worthy of a £116m transfer fee would not have found it in Belfast. Instead, it was Nick Woltemade who, courtesy of his maiden goal for his country, endorsed his status as Germany’s man of the moment. It would not be a World Cup without Germany and it will not be a World Cup without Germany. They have edged closer to the 2026 staging. Julian Nagelsmann will enjoy more comfortable evenings on the touchline. For all their technical ­superiority, Germany failed to properly punish a Northern Ireland team who showed wonderful tenacity and grew in belief as the clock ticked down. Continue reading...