Belgium exhibited remarkable composure and skill during their recent match against Wales, securing a 4-2 victory that solidifies their strong position in the qualifying group for the upcoming World Cup. The game in Cardiff underlined Belgium’s strength when the going gets tough. From star player Kevin De Bruyne, who was a joy to watch and ended the game with a cracking executed pen.
Right from the beginning, Belgium were in control and in command, never really shaken throughout the rest of the match. The squad showed their knowhow and tactical chops, outsmarting Wales at key junctures. De Bruyne, who’s received comparisons to Lionel Messi for his pre-penalty routine, stepped up and cooly slotted two penalties home. He held the ball and waited for the goalkeeper to commit. Then, he magically deposited the orb into a spot where it couldn’t be saved on a bet.
Belgium’s opening penalty came through a VAR intervention, giving them the chance to go up early. As they have done all season long, the team’s deep bench, clutch play and fitness wore down their competition, enabling them to outclass the competition.
As it stands, Belgium has the best situation in their qualifying group, recently ranked eighth in the world. With just two matches left in their schedule, they’re set to qualify for the World Cup. Their next fixture isn’t much easier, as they travel to face Kazakhstan. Then on November 15, they’ll host Liechtenstein.
Belgium has played their way into believing in their chances.
“Belgium still have to travel to Kazakhstan, that’s a hard one in so many ways.” – Craig Bellamy
As they head into this high-stakes stretch, De Bruyne’s play will be of utmost importance. His poise under pressure has been the defining factor in Belgium’s success thus far. It’s no wonder Craig had observers saying his execution was parallel to that of some of the game’s all-time greats.
That resilience to deliver when it really counted was on show for Belgium in their match against Wales. From flawless strategic gameplay to their psychological toughness, the team’s mental resiliency was on display as they captured a convincing win.
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