Belgium’s World Cup Hopes on Hold after Draw in Kazakhstan

Belgium’s aspirations for World Cup qualification are momentarily stalled after a tense 1-1 draw against Kazakhstan. The match took place during the qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and although Belgium was the favorite, Kazakhstan proved resilient, particularly given they played with ten men.

Match Summary

The match started with Belgium controlling possession, eager to secure their World Cup spot with a win. However, Kazakhstan quickly demonstrated their capability to counterattack. Galymzhan Kenzhebek initiated the first threat, challenging Belgian goalkeeper Matz Sels with a powerful drive that required a skillful save.

First Half Highlights

Despite Belgium’s early dominance, the home side struck first. Dastan Satpayev capitalized on a defensive error to shoot past Sels, giving Kazakhstan a 1-0 lead. Belgium’s best opportunity to respond in the first half came when Leandro Trossard found some space in the box, only to be thwarted by Temirlan Anarbekov’s impressive save.

• Goal by Dastan Satpayev (Kazakhstan)
• Key save by Matz Sels
• Notable chance from Leandro Trossard

As the first half progressed, Kazakhstan continued to press forward, but Belgium started to find their rhythm. Anarbekov’s superb goalkeeping kept the scoreline in favor of the hosts by saving attempts from Charles De Ketelaere and Timothy Castagne.

Second Half Reactions

After the break, Belgium quickly equalized. Hans Vanaken headed in a cross from Castagne, leveling the match. This goal significantly shifted the momentum toward Belgium, who dominated thereafter.

• Goal by Hans Vanaken (Belgium)
• Kazakhstan reduced to ten men after Islam Chesnokov’s red card

Despite being down a player, Kazakhstan remained determined. Anarbekov’s heroics continued as he denied Vanaken once more, followed by an astonishing save from a potential own goal by Nuraly Alip. However, with the clock ticking, Belgium struggled to convert their chances, even with a plethora of attempts.

Looking Ahead

The draw means Belgium still needs a decisive victory against Liechtenstein in their upcoming match to clinch a place in the World Cup. Meanwhile, Kazakhstan closed their qualifying campaign with a respectable eight points.

Key Match Statistics

Temirlan Anarbekov was named Man of the Match for his remarkable saves that kept Kazakhstan in the contest. Belgium’s World Cup hopes remain alive, but they need to work hard to ensure their future on the international stage.