Brussels, Belgium – Tessa Wullaert etched her name into Belgian football history on Saturday, becoming the first player, male or female, to score 100 international goals for the Red Flames. The milestone came during a dominant 5-0 victory over Israel in a crucial Nations League match, continuing Belgium’s strong start to their qualifying campaign for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
Wullaert, 32, didn’t just reach the century mark – she surpassed it. The captain scored a hat trick, finding the net in the 10th, 19th and 86th minutes (penalty). The convincing win puts Belgium atop their Nations League group with six points from two matches. The Red Flames’ attack proved too much for Israel, showcasing a potent combination of skill and precision.
“It’s a special moment, not just for me, but for the whole team,” Wullaert said after the match, as reported by Belgian media. “To be the first Belgian to reach 100 goals is something I’ll cherish forever. But more importantly, we got a great result and are moving in the right direction.”
Wullaert’s Historic Performance
The game was effectively decided in the opening 20 minutes. Wullaert opened the scoring in the 10th minute after a clever through ball from Marie Vanzeir. Just nine minutes later, the pair combined again, with Vanzeir’s shot being blocked before Wullaert pounced on the rebound to score her 100th goal. The team celebrated the milestone with a special formation featuring teammates Eurlings, Cayman, and Kees, creating the numbers ‘100’ on the pitch.
The Red Flames didn’t relent. A free kick from Wullaert led to a 20th-minute goal by Janice Cayman, extending the lead to 3-0. The dominance continued throughout the match, with Lowiese Seynhaeve, making her debut in goal for Belgium, enjoying a relatively quiet afternoon thanks to a resolute defensive performance. The final goal came from the penalty spot in the 86th minute, Wullaert completing her hat trick.
A Career Defined by Goals
Wullaert’s journey to 100 international goals has been remarkable. She scored her first goal for Belgium in August 2011 in a friendly against Russia. Throughout her career, she has consistently found the back of the net, becoming a pivotal figure for the Red Flames. Portugal has proven to be her favorite opponent, with seven goals scored against them.
Her most prolific performance came in 2021 during a World Cup qualifying match against Armenia, where she scored five goals in a stunning 19-0 victory. Wullaert’s ability to consistently deliver goals has made her a national icon and a key player for Belgium on the international stage.
Club Success and Current Form
Currently playing for Inter Milan in Italy’s Serie A, Wullaert continues to showcase her goal-scoring prowess. She has nine goals and nine assists in 15 appearances this season for Inter, the current league runners-up. Before joining Inter in 2024, she spent two seasons at Fortuna Sittard, scoring 46 goals, and two seasons at Anderlecht, where she netted an impressive 71 times. Her club career also includes stints at Manchester City, Wolfsburg, and Standard.
Wullaert’s trophy cabinet is equally impressive, boasting six Golden Shoe awards, three Belgian titles and cups, two German titles and cups, and two English cups. She reached the Champions League final twice with Wolfsburg, though unfortunately, she was on the losing side both times.
Nations League and World Cup Qualification
The Red Flames’ victory over Israel is a significant step in their quest to qualify for the 2027 Women’s World Cup. Belgium is currently competing in the second tier (B-Division) of the Nations League. The top three teams in each B-Division group will advance to the play-offs, where they will face two rounds of competition to secure a coveted spot at the World Cup.
Belgium leads their group, with Scotland and Luxembourg still to play their second match. The Red Flames will face Scotland in a double-header on April 14th and 18th, followed by a two-match series against Luxembourg on June 5th and 9th to conclude the first phase of their qualifying campaign.
The team’s strong start to the Nations League demonstrates their ambition and determination to finally reach the World Cup stage. With Wullaert leading the charge, the Red Flames are well-positioned to make a serious run at qualification.
Next Up: The Red Flames will travel to Scotland for a crucial double-header on April 14th and 18th. These matches will be pivotal in determining their chances of advancing to the play-offs and ultimately securing a place at the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
What do you think of Tessa Wullaert’s incredible achievement? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
