Poland grabs the lead, Flames must redo all for World Cup qualifying

The Red Flames defend a 1-0 lead in Poland from the first leg of the World Cup qualification, but the host team scores a goal midway through the first half, meaning the Belgian side must redo everything to progress to the next round.

Poland breaks the deadlock

On 13 October 2026, at 18:45 local time, the Polish striker Pajor scores with a header after a corner kick and puts her team ahead 1-0. The ball is cleared by Seynhaeve, but the Flames' defence cannot stop the header.

Flames try to come back

Immediately after the goal the Flames look for a response. Dhont wins the ball strongly on the left, but her cross is blocked. Later Detruyer creates a corner, but Janssen misses the connection. Toloba and Kees get little space to create danger.

Key moments and cards

The first yellow card of the match is shown to Tomasiak after a foul on Janssen. Later Seynhaeve blocks a powerful reflex save from Dudek, after which the Polish attack is broken up again.

Red Flames eliminated on penalties by Poland

Despite several chances for the Flames, including a long ball from Sari Kees to Marie Detruyer, the ball often stays in the air or the attack is broken down by the Polish defence.

The match is streamed live via the Programme on Facebook, where fans of both football, tennis and Formula 1 follow the action. The event is part of the Jupiler Pro League‑calendar, although it is an international qualification match.

Poland eliminates the Red Flames and plunges Belgium into uncertainty

The Flames remain under pressure; a draw would be enough to preserve the lead from the first match, but a loss would jeopardise progression to the next round.