- Web Desk
- 5 Hours ago
Kazakhstan vs Belgium: hosts keep opponents waiting for World Cup ticket
Kazakhstan vs Belgium ended in a 1-1 draw on Saturday, delaying Belgium’s chance to book their spot at the 2026 World Cup and pushing their qualification hopes to the final stretch.
Belgium vs Liechtenstein now becomes the key fixture on Tuesday, where a positive result should finally secure their ticket to the finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
In the Kazakhstan vs Belgium clash, the hosts struck first in the ninth minute through Dastan Satpaev. Belgium responded early in the second half with an equaliser from Hans Vanaken.
Kazakhstan’s 22-year-old goalkeeper, Temirlan Anarbekov of Kairat Almaty, stole the spotlight with a brilliant performance in just his second full international appearance.
Despite the setback, Belgium remain at the top of Group J with 15 points and, due to their superior goal difference, are well positioned to seal qualification with at least a draw in the Belgium vs Liechtenstein game on Tuesday.
Croatia qualify for 2026 World Cup as Netherlands close in, Germany face tense finish
Croatia sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a 3-1 victory over the in-form Faroe Islands on Friday, while the Netherlands moved to the brink of qualification and Germany’s hopes remain uncertain.
The Faroes shocked Croatia with an early strike from Geza David Turi, but goals from Josko Gvardiol, Petar Musa and Nikola Vlasic in Rijeka secured top spot in Group L and confirmed Croatia’s ticket to the finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The visitors, on a three-match winning streak, briefly threatened an upset, yet Croatia—led by 40-year-old Luka Modric earning his 193rd cap—quickly regained control.
Meanwhile, Germany stayed alive in Group A with a hard-fought 2-0 win in Luxembourg, courtesy of a Nick Woltemade brace. Their qualification will be decided on Monday when they host Slovakia.
