Belgium’s Euro 2025 Challenge: Tessa Wullaert Leads the Charge
Belgium’s women’s national football team, the Red Flames, faces a critical juncture in their Euro 2025 campaign following a narrow 1-0 defeat to Italy. As they prepare to take on reigning world champions Spain, the pressure mounts, with their chances of progress hinging on the outcome of their next match. A loss against Spain could see them exit the tournament prematurely, especially if Italy triumphs over Portugal. Yet, one player stands out as a beacon of hope amid the uncertainty: prolific striker Tessa Wullaert.
Setting the Stage: A Brief Overview of Belgium’s Football Journey
Currently ranked 20th in FIFA’s women’s football standings, the Red Flames are participating in their third consecutive UEFA European Championship, having previously appeared in 2017 and 2022. Their previous effort included an impressive quarterfinal run, bolstered by the leadership of their captain and all-time leading scorer, Tessa Wullaert. The experience gained over the past tournaments has converted into higher expectations for this Euro.
A Valued Player: Tessa Wullaert’s Impact on the Team
The 32-year-old Wullaert carries considerable weight on her shoulders. Known for her ability to break through defenses and change games, she led her team to an astonishing 2-0 lead against Spain in a prior Nations League match back in February. While Belgium appeared poised for victory, they ultimately succumbed to a last-minute equalizer and a heartbreaking last-gasp winner, highlighting the unpredictability of high-stakes football.
Recent Trajectory: From Setbacks to Comebacks
After that agonizing experience against Spain, the Red Flames suffered setbacks against both Portugal and England. However, a resurgence in form began with a historic 3-2 win over the Lionesses, where Wullaert notably scored twice and provided an assist, showcasing her talent and tenacity.
Progression and Performances: Building Momentum
Despite facing challenges, Wullaert’s performance has remained consistent. Following a disappointing 5-1 loss to Spain, she rebounded, netting two goals in a critical 3-0 victory against Portugal, which secured Belgium a third-place finish in their Nations League group. With a focus on preparation for Euro 2025, Wullaert also marked a personal milestone, scoring her 93rd international goal in a friendly against Greece, inching closer to the coveted 100-goal mark.
Looking Ahead: The Road to 100 Goals
In an interview with ESPN, Wullaert reflected on her journey and the significance of reaching the 100-goal milestone. “If you had asked me 93 goals ago whether or not I thought I could have scored 100 goals for my country, I wouldn’t have believed you,” Wullaert said. “Now that I’m close, it definitely crosses my mind.” She expressed a desire to lead her team effectively while also working towards this personal goal.
Overcoming the Odds: A Remarkable Journey
Tessa’s journey to becoming Belgium’s leading goal scorer has not been without its hurdles. In 2016, she surpassed Aline Zeler’s record to become the highest scorer in Belgian women’s football history. This journey began in 2011 when she scored her first international goal while balancing a budding football career with her education, demonstrating the commitment and sacrifices she made along the way.
Challenges Faced: Highs and Lows of Professional Football
Wullaert made a significant leap to the German club VfL Wolfsburg, where she secured numerous titles, including two Bundesliga championships and three DfB-Pokal trophies. While her on-field success was celebrated, adapting to life in a different country posed significant challenges. She described moments of loneliness, emphasizing the emotional struggles that accompany the pursuit of athletic excellence. Transitioning to Manchester City in 2018 further compounded her personal challenges, as she split time between her budding career and family obligations.
The Comeback Kid: Resurgence in the Domestic League
Following her time abroad, Wullaert returned to Belgium with Anderlecht and later joined Fortuna Sittard in the Netherlands, wherein a remarkable performance led her to score a staggering 108 goals in 84 league matches between 2020 and 2024. In her latest endeavor with Inter Milan, she has helped the club achieve its best-ever Serie A finish, bringing her closer to both club and personal accolades.
Current Hurdles: Preparing for Tough Matches Ahead
With Euro 2025 underway, Belgium knows the stakes are high. To advance, they need to meet Spain with both resolve and strategy. Wullaert stressed the importance of teamwork and resilience: “We know we have the qualities, but we have to bring those together as a group and believe in the gameplan.” She noted that their recent history indicates they can trip up even the strongest teams if they maximize their potential.
Community Support: Rallying Behind the Red Flames
Wullaert also highlighted the significance of community support for their journey. From decorated hometowns to public screenings during the last Euros, she emphasized the bond between the team and its supporters. “We want to go as far as possible while we’re here, and we take that mindset into every match,” she stated passionately.
Aiming for Progress: Setting New Standards in Women’s Football
Belgium’s rise in women’s football, characterized by improved conditions and increased participation, showcases the dedication of both the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) and its players. The formation of their strategic plan, “World at Our Feet,” reflects a commitment to fostering women’s football through enhanced funding and resources.
Future Aspirations: Beyond the Euro
Looking beyond the tournament, Wullaert expressed a vision of continued success, emphasizing that making it to the Euros three times in a row now sets a standard for future campaigns: “It’s not an easy thing to do.” Her thoughts on team dynamics reveal a close-knit squad that prioritizes both performance on the pitch and mental well-being off it.
Captaining the Charge: Leading from the Front
As captain, Wullaert’s role extends beyond mere athletic performance; she embodies leadership. “Being captain is a big responsibility,” she notes. “The players look to you in all the big moments.” Her determination to inspire both on and off the field underscores her commitment to fostering an environment of support and motivation among teammates.
The Path Forward: Unleashing Potential
With Belgium’s qualification for the Euro marking a significant achievement, the focus now shifts to execution. Wullaert recaptures the team’s essence, emphasizing synchronization among players: “We need all 11 players to be on it together.” That unity is paramount, especially as they face formidable opponents like Spain and Portugal.
Final Thoughts: A Nation’s Hopes Rest on Wullaert’s Shoulders
As the Red Flames prepare for their crucial matches, the anticipation builds. Wullaert’s journey epitomizes hard work and dedication, proving that, regardless of the challenges, resilience can pave the way for success. She stands not only as a key player but also as a symbol of the blossoming era for women’s football in Belgium, a testament to the potential that lies ahead.
As they embark on this pivotal moment in Euro 2025, all eyes will be on Belgium’s captain to deliver when it matters most, bridging personal ambitions with the hopes of a nation united behind its women’s football team.