On the last matchday of the World Cup qualifying round Wales earned a not insignificant point (1-1) against Belgium at home in Cardiff.
Belgium started well and deservedly took the lead through a fine goal from midfielder De Bruyne. After that, however, the Red Devils took the pedal to the metal – and that was to take its revenge.
Local hero Moore equalises in Cardiff
With their first good finish, Wales equalised through Moore (32nd). The visitors’ backline did not look good in Cardiff. For Moore, who plays as a striker for Cardiff City, the goal was a special one.
Dortmund’s Thorgan Hazard – one of five Bundesliga players in coach Roberto Martinez’s starting eleven, along with Witsel, Meunier (both BVB), Boyata (Hertha BSC) and keeper Casteels (Wolfsburg) – failed to hit the aluminium with a great volley attempt (41st). Otherwise, the match offered few highlights. Only Williams almost turned the game around once, but failed to beat Casteels (83rd), who reacted well.
The 1-1 draw was not insignificant for Wales. If coach Robert Page’s team had lost, they would have dropped to third place due to the 2-0 victory of the Czechs against Estonia. Both teams are qualified for the play-offs on the basis of their Nations League placings – Wales, however, now have the better draw for the games at the end of March thanks to second place.
