Belgium Seeks 2026 World Cup Berth in Kazakhstan Qualifier

On November 15, 2025, Belgium will travel to Kazakhstan for a crucial World Cup qualifying match, with the chance to secure direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The Red Devils currently top Group J with 14 points from six matches, sitting one point clear of second-placed North Macedonia, with a game in hand.

However, Belgium faces significant injury concerns ahead of the clash. Key midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has undergone hamstring surgery and will miss the qualifier, while record goalscorer Romelu Lukaku also remains sidelined with a thigh injury. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been ruled out due to an adductor muscle injury as well. Despite the extensive injury list, Belgium boasts considerable depth, with captain Youri Tielemans returning to the squad after recovering from injury.

Kazakhstan, on the other hand, has struggled in their World Cup qualifying campaign, with seven points from seven matches and mathematically eliminated from contention. However, the team's standout prospect is 17-year-old forward Dastan Satpaev, who has scored 18 goals and provided 8 assists for Kairat this season. Satpaev is set to join Chelsea in a €2.4 million deal in August 2026.

The match promises to be an intriguing encounter, with Belgium aiming to seal their place in the 2026 World Cup, while Kazakhstan's young talent looks to cause an upset against the injury-hit visitors.