Viral Video! Cat and Rat cause hilarious delay in Wales-Belgium World Cup qualifier in Cardiff

Play was briefly interrupted in Monday’s World Cup qualifier between Wales and Belgium at Cardiff City Stadium when a large rat made its way onto the pitch. The hilarious video quickly went viral across social media, turning the incident into a one-of-a-kind moment on the football pitch.

Belgium was leading 2-1 in the second half when the rodent appeared near goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Courtois attempted to catch the rat, but it quickly escaped. Wales forward Brennan Johnson then chased it off the field along the sidelines, much to the delight of the crowd.



The stoppage came after a routine pause for an injured player, and before play could resume, officials had to wait for the rat to leave the pitch.

Interestingly, a cat also made an appearance earlier, sprinting along the sidelines before the rat made its way onto the pitch.


Despite the unusual delay, Belgium went on to secure a 4-2 victory, moving to the top of Group J in the European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.