Wales are left staring at play-offs as likely route to World Cup

WALES' hopes of automatic World Cup qualification were dealt a blow as Kevin De Bruyne converted two penalties in Belgium's 4-2 win in Cardiff.

- By PHIL BLANCHE

On a crazy night, when second-half Wales substitute Brennan Johnson had to shoo a rat off the pitch, Belgium recovered from an early deficit to take control of Group J.

Joe Rodon gave Wales the perfect start after seven minutes as the Leeds defender rose unchecked to score for the second successive qualifier at Cardiff City Stadium.

But Belgium were ahead midway through the first half as De Bruyne punished Ethan Ampadu's handball and Thomas Meunier swept home from a devastating counter attack.

De Bruyne dispatched a second penalty after 76 minutes following another - and more obvious - handball offence before substitute Nathan Broadhead gave Wales hope.

But Leandro Trossard instantly restored the two-goal cushion to seal matters.

Wales now trail Belgium by four points and are seemingly locked in a battle with North Macedonia - who were held 1-1 at home by Kazakhstan - for second spot.

The playoffs in March surely await Craig Bellamy's side now.