Red Flames eliminated on penalties by Poland

The Red Flames saw their 2027 World Cup hopes evaporate after a penalty shoot‑out loss to Poland, ending their qualification campaign. The second leg of the first playoff, played in Leuven, ended with a Polish 4‑3 shoot‑out victory, Belgium no longer taking part in the tournament scheduled in Brazil.

Match progression

The match started with a goal from Polish forward Ewa Pajor in the 42nd minute, followed by a Belgian equaliser by Amy Littel in the 51st minute, who converted a free kick from Tessa Wullaert. Poland regained the lead in the 67th minute through Paulina Tomasiak, before Jarne Teulings brought the score to 2‑2 in extra time (105th minute). A new Polish goal, scored by Pajor in the 116th minute, put the visitors back in front again.

Key moments and refereeing decisions

The match was marked by several decisive actions: a poorly taken corner allowed Pajor to open the scoring, while a powerful shot from Ewelina Kamczyik was ruled out for off‑side after VAR intervention. The Belgian defence also committed a foul on Jasmien Mathys in the 120+1 minute, thus preventing a fourth Polish goal.

The Belgian coach highlighted the performance of the Lowiese Seynhaeve defence, stating that “The Lowiese Seynhaeve defence is very strong on its line according to its coach.” This remark reflects the confidence placed in the defence, despite the difficulties encountered.

In the first half, Belgium missed a major chance when Mariam Toloba created the first real opportunity of the match, a header that forced Kinga Seweryn to relax. The Belgian defence was also caught off guard just before the break, with Lowiese Seynhaeve completely missing her clearance on a corner.

After regular time, the two teams went into extra time, where Jarne Teulings equalised for Belgium. However, the Polish defensive superiority allowed Pajor, a FC Barcelona player, to regain the lead, ultimately leading to the penalty shoot‑out.

During the shoot‑out, the Polish converted four kicks, while the Belgian side failed to convert their attempts, notably those of Teulings and Vanzeir. Poland therefore won the shoot‑out 4‑3, sealing the Red Flames’ elimination.

This defeat is a disappointment for Belgian supporters who hoped to see their team competing in Brazil in 2027. Belgium will now have to focus on other objectives, while Poland continues its path towards the next qualification stage.