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‘Excellent match in the false nine role’: Liverpool forward shines for his country

Giuseppe Labellarte

Thu 25 March 2021 16:15, UK

Liverpool loanee Harry Wilson was in international action on Wednesday night.

The Reds academy graduate, currently on loan at Cardiff, started for Wales in their World Cup match against Belgium in Leuven.

Wales took the lead in the 10th minute thanks to a marvellous team effort that culminated in Gareth Bale slipping the ball into the path of Wilson, who finished first time.

Kevin De Bruyne got Belgium back into the game on 22 minutes with a superb goal from distance, and Thorgan Hazard then struck six minutes later to take a 2-1 lead into the break.

The hosts then struck again in the second half as Romelu Lukaku netted a penalty after Chris Mepham brought down Dries Mertens.

Despite the defeat, there were good performances from several Welsh players, with Wilson one of the better players on the night.

deemed Wilson – contracted to Liverpool until 2023 – their Star Man, giving him 8 out of 10.

“Had an excellent match in the false nine role he also performed with distinction in last time out against Finland,” they wrote.

“Scored a beautifully crafted goal, but also troubled Belgium’s defenders with his clever movement and skill.

“Surprisingly taken off midway through the second-half when he looked Wales’ best hope going forward. Wales never really threatened after that.”

And wrote: “Harry Wilson got the opening goal of the game with a calm finish past Courtois. He was excellent on the ball, winning his duels with aplomb.”

Wales are in friendly action against Mexico on Saturday before facing the Czech Republic next Tuesday.