Belgium’s Record-Breaker Tessa Wullaert Carries Euro 2025 Hopes
Belgium’s path to the Euro 2025 knockout stages hangs in the balance after their narrow 1-0 defeat to Italy, leaving them facing a must-win showdown against world champions Spain. But in captain Tessa Wullaert, the Red Flames possess a history-maker who thrives when the odds are stacked against her.
The 32-year-old striker, Belgium’s all-time leading scorer with 93 international goals, has spent her career shattering expectations. Currently ranked 20th globally, Belgium are competing in just their third European Championship, yet they’ve qualified for three consecutive tournaments since 2017—a feat largely attributable to Wullaert’s relentless contributions.
Near-Misses and Bounce-Backs
Wullaert nearly engineered one of 2023’s biggest upsets when she propelled Belgium to a stunning 2-0 lead over Spain in the Nations League. A historic victory slipped away in agonizing fashion, however, as La Roja equalized in the 92nd minute before snatching a 96th-minute winner. The collapse sent Belgium into a tailspin, with losses to Portugal and England following—until Wullaert reignited their campaign in April with a virtuoso performance.
Against England in Leuven, she scored twice and assisted another inside half an hour, securing a landmark 3-2 victory. Though Spain later thrashed Belgium 5-1, Wullaert responded with a brace in Portugal to clinch third in their Nations League group. Her relentless form continued into Euro 2025 preparations, netting again in a 2-0 friendly win over Greece.
Chasing Century of Goals
“At the start of my career, if someone told me I’d score 100 goals for Belgium, I’d have laughed,” Wullaert told ESPN from their Swiss training base. “But now, at 93, it’s within reach—and becoming the first Belgian, man or woman, to hit that mark would be incredible.”
The Anderlecht forward has already rewritten the record books. In 2016, she surpassed Aline Zeler as Belgium women’s top scorer. By 2024, she matched Romelu Lukaku’s men’s record of 85 goals before eclipsing it weeks later, earning commemorative gold boots from the Belgian FA.
From Intern to Icon
Wullaert’s journey began humbly in 2011 when, as an 18-year-old balancing football with a tourism degree and internship, she netted her first international goal against Russia. A talented junior tennis player, she ultimately chose football’s collective spirit over individual sports. “I’m my own harshest critic,” she admitted. “I needed teammates to keep me grounded.”
As Belgium prepares for their decisive Spain clash, Wullaert’s ability to deliver in high-pressure moments offers hope. For a team still establishing itself among Europe’s elite, their captain’s penchant for breaking barriers might just be the key to another against-the-odds triumph.
