Kevin De Bruyne scored an 88th-minute winner for Belgium in their latest qualifier for the 2026 World Cup to seal an important 4-3 win for them against Wales.
Jeremy Doku shone for Belgium against Wales as well, scoring his nation’s third goal but after Craig Bellamy’s side miraculously levelled the scores to 3-3, De Bruyne emerged as the match-winner.
The Manchester City legend made a darting run inside the box and struck a volley past Karl Darlow, getting on the end of an inch-perfect cross from Youri Tielemans.
As De Bruyne is set to join Napoli, he has reminded the world once again that he belongs at the highest level despite being 33.
Belgium’s media praise Kevin De Bruyne after he seals win against Wales
Kevin De Bruyne is arguably still Belgium’s best player and that was evidenced against Wales as his nation continue to rely on the midfield maestro to be their difference-maker.
De Bruyne aims to play at the World Cup and as a result, his latest strike has given the Red Devils hope to qualify for the competition next year.
Belgian media outlet HL gave the six-time Premier League a match rating of 7/10 due to his all-action performance: “Lots of desire, drive and energy. Was involved in the first two goals. Kicked wide and over. Unfortunately, always just not until he shot the 4-3 [goal] in at the far post in the end.”
De Bruyne has seemingly looked frustrated for Belgium in the past but that did not stop him for settling their contest against Wales, with Walfoot also giving him a 7/10 rating for stepping up to the plate: “His liberating goal brightens up a match in which he blew hot and cold. He had plenty of good passes but also a bit of nonchalance at times. If he caps off this kind of performance with a decisive goal, we won’t complain.”
Kevin De Bruyne stats for Belgium vs Wales
De Bruyne admitted he still backs himself to perform at the highest level and now, he is letting his feet do the talking.
The stats back up why the Champions League winner remains a threat.
| KEVIN DE BRUYNE STATS FOR BELGIUM VS WALES | |
| GOALS | 1 |
| BIG CHANCES CREATED | 1 |
| KEY PASSES | 4 |
| DUELS WON | 9/13 |
De Bruyne not just scored a goal but also created a big chance, made four key passes and won nine out of his 13 contested duels against Wales for Belgium.
The former Wolfsburg midfielder will be driven by his ambition to play in what could possibly be his final World Cup campaign and Rudi Garcia will need his talisman to continue delivering.
