Wales winger Sorba Thomas has issued a bold statement ahead of their upcoming match against Belgium in Cardiff, suggesting the Red Devils will be "shaking in their boots." This confidence stems from Wales' spirited performance in their recent World Cup qualifier in Brussels, where they fought back from a 3-0 deficit to level the score at 3-3 before succumbing to a late Kevin De Bruyne goal, losing 4-3.

Thomas, who recently joined Stoke City, didn't hold back in his assessment of the match and Belgium's perceived lack of respect. "I don't think they showed us the respect we deserved," Thomas stated. "I think they thought the game was done, but we showed our Welsh fire. We run through brick walls for each other. Even though we lost, I feel like we won in our own heads." He further emphasized the team's unity and determination, stating, "The gaffer's been saying in interviews, we're a close group, we fight for each other, we play for each other, we'd run through brick walls for each other. The second half showed what we're about."

The winger also highlighted the significance of playing in Cardiff, where the Welsh team enjoys passionate support. "They are going to be shaking in their boots when they come to Cardiff to play us, because we're not the same Wales they played all them many years," Thomas declared. "We're hungry, we're a young group, and I thought when it went to 3-3 it was in our hands."

Wales, under the guidance of Craig Bellamy since July 2024, have shown promising signs. The team is currently competing in the 2024–25 UEFA Nations League B, and while they narrowly missed out on qualification for UEFA Euro 2024, their recent performances indicate a team on the rise. Bellamy himself acknowledged the need for his players to understand their potential, stating, "The players have to understand how good they are. To come to a top-eight team and to play that way will give us so much. But I don't like the defeat, and I don't feel 'oh unlucky Wales.' We need to win these games."

The upcoming match in Cardiff on October 13 will be a crucial one for both sides in their World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign. Belgium, currently ranked 6th in the FIFA World Rankings, will be looking to assert their dominance, while Wales will be aiming to capitalize on their home advantage and prove their mettle. The result of the match could significantly impact the trajectory of both teams' qualifying hopes.

While Belgium boasts a talented squad including stars like Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, Wales possesses a new generation of players eager to make their mark. As Thomas pointed out, "People think Belgium are just going to walk through the group – I disagree." The Welsh team is embracing a new style of play, instilling a sense of fear in their opponents when they come to Cardiff.