The Wales XI Bellamy should pick for crucial Belgium clash



Rhodri Evans

With Wales vs Belgium at the Cardiff City Stadium now a must-win, with Bellamy’s side sitting in third in World Cup qualifying group J.

Here is Sportin Wales’ predicted team for Monday’s contest:

Goalkeeper: Karl Darlow

Darlow remains the safest pair of hands for Wales right now. With plenty of experience and composure under pressure, he can provide the calm presence needed against a team that creates lots of chances. His distribution will also be key if Wales want to launch quick counter-attacks.

Right Back: Neco Williams

If fully fit, Neco Williams should start on the right. Though he’s often deployed on the left for Wales, moving him to his natural side unlocks his full potential. He’s quick, fearless, and excellent going forward — attributes that could keep Belgium’s left flank pinned back. His recovery pace is also a major asset defensively.

Centre Back: Joe Rodon

Rodon has been solid under Bellamy and remains Wales’ best central defender. He reads the game well, is good in the air, and won’t be fazed by Belgium’s big names. With Wales likely to face periods of pressure, Rodon’s clearances and positioning will be vital.

Centre Back: Ben Davies

The experience and leadership Davies brings to the back line is irreplaceable. He’ll partner Rodon at centre-back, keeping the structure tight and stepping into midfield when needed. His ability to play out from the back gives Wales more than just a defender — he’s a calm presence on the ball.

Left Back: Jay Dasilva

Dasilva comes in at left-back, offering a more natural balance than pushing Neco Williams wide. He’s agile, technically sound, and able to support Sorba Thomas on the overlap. Against a team like Belgium, Dasilva’s ability to track wingers and prevent overloads on the flanks will be critical.

Holding Midfielder: Ethan Ampadu

Ampadu continues to be the heartbeat of this Wales midfield. He’ll sit deepest, shielding the defence and disrupting Belgium’s rhythm. More than a destroyer, he can distribute quickly and set the tempo in transition. His discipline allows others more freedom going forward.

Central Midfielder: David Brooks

Bringing Brooks into the midfield adds flair and attacking intent. He’s comfortable in tight spaces, capable of beating a man, and can create chances with both feet. Belgium won’t enjoy playing against someone who drives at defenders and looks to unlock the final third. Brooks gives Wales a creative edge without sacrificing too much work rate.

Right Wing: Brennan Johnson

Johnson is a must-start. His pace and directness will be Wales’ biggest weapon in behind Belgium’s high line. Whether it’s from a counterattack or a quick switch of play, Johnson can stretch defences and chip in with a goal or assist. If Belgium over-commit, he’ll be the one to punish them.

Central Attacking Midfielder: Harry Wilson

Wilson is in great form and has proven himself as Wales’ most creative threat. He’ll operate behind the striker, floating into pockets and trying to link with Johnson and Moore. His set-pieces, vision, and eye for goal make him a player Belgium will need to watch closely.

Left Wing: Sorba Thomas

Thomas starts on the left, offering drive, pressing, and dangerous crossing from wide areas. His work rate is tireless, which will help protect Dasilva, and his delivery into the box will be aimed at Moore. Belgium’s full-backs can be exposed — Thomas has the pace and tenacity to take advantage.

Striker: Kieffer Moore

Moore remains central to Bellamy’s system. He holds the ball up, draws fouls, wins aerial duels, and provides a physical presence that unsettles defenders. Against a side like Belgium, who may push up and leave space in behind, Moore gives Wales an out-ball and a goal threat from set-pieces.


Sportin Wales’s coverage of Wales’s World Cup qualifying campaign is proudly sponsored by S4C. You can watch all of Wales’s matches this year for free on S4C and S4C Clic.

If you want to read more pieces from Sportin Wales, why not read to our monthly magazine here or subscribe to the magazine and newsletter at https://sportin.wales/subscribe/.

Our podcast is back for the new season and our co-founder Alex Cuthbert is in charge! You can find all the episodes here or the video versions on our YouTube channel.

You can also keep track of our pieces and videos on our socials at @Sportin_Wales on X or Sportin Wales on Instagram and Facebook.