Wales‘ World Cup Hopes Dim After Belgium Defeat, Bellamy Defends Aggressive Tactics
Brussels – Wales’ automatic qualification hopes for the 2024 World Cup suffered a major blow thursday, falling to a defeat against Belgium following a 4-3 loss in Brussels. The result comes after Belgium’s earlier goalless draw with North Macedonia opened a pathway for wales to secure top spot in Group J with wins in thier remaining fixtures.
Despite a bold, attacking approach, Wales were once again exposed defensively, conceding goals to Jeremy Doku, Kevin de Bruyne, adn others. The loss marks the 12th goal conceded in five games for Wales, effectively ending their chances of automatic qualification.
Manager Craig Bellamy defended his team’s strategy, emphasizing the importance of possession. “We felt the best way of being able to combat this team was to have the ball,” Bellamy explained. “And we created a lot of chances, but we felt that was the way of being able to beat this team because we needed to win.” He acknowledged the risks associated with their approach, notably against a player like Doku. “That transition moment, with Jeremy, it’s so fearful every time you have the ball that if it turns over, this kid, he’s just that.” Bellamy, who previously coached Doku at Anderlecht, added, “I’ve experienced it…I knew how dangerous he was, but going against him…We knew there were going to be challenging moments in that game.”
The defeat follows a 3-0 loss to England in a friendly at Wembley last week, a decision that drew criticism from fans and pundits. While supporters initially remained optimistic that the friendly would prepare the team for the crucial qualifier, the recent results have intensified discontent.
Despite the setbacks,Bellamy remains resolute in his tactical ideology. ”I’ve seen a lot today that makes me feel we can get close to these. we can get close. We need to keep improving,” he stated.”I told you at the start when I was going to do this. I’m going to press, and I won’t sit back. I know that goes against some people, but this is who I am.” He concluded, “Today, I’ve seen a team with flaws because I have them. A team that wants to do something,because I want to. I’m grateful for that.”
