Belgium Secures Dominant Wins in World Cup Qualifiers
Belgium convincingly defeated Liechtenstein and Kazakhstan in their recent World Cup qualifying matches, rising to second place in Group J. The Red Devils triumphed 6-0 against Liechtenstein in Vaduz, followed by an identical scoreline against Kazakhstan in Brussels., reports 24brussels.
Coach Rudi Garcia lauded his team’s efforts after the match at Anderlecht’s Lotto Park on Sunday, stating, “We did an excellent job during the international break and gave more than was required.”
He acknowledged Kazakhstan’s previous performance against Wales, remarking, “Kazakhstan played a solid game against Wales on Thursday [a 1-0 defeat] and they didn’t deserve to lose. We played at our best today. I think we did a perfect job, and even more than that. This international break has been excellent, but we’re keeping our feet on the ground.”
New captain Youri Tielemans netted two goals against Liechtenstein, while Kevin De Bruyne and Jérémy Doku each scored twice against Kazakhstan.
Garcia praised De Bruyne’s impact on the team: “We cherish Kevin. It’s wonderful to see him at work here. He is so good, in a class of his own. His talent is obvious. He was still very motivated and is a true leader.”
“This international break has been excellent, but we’re keeping our feet on the ground.”
As it stands, North Macedonia leads Group J, one point ahead of Belgium and having played one game more. The two teams will clash at the Planet Group Arena in Ghent on 10 October, followed by Belgium’s match against Wales in Cardiff on 13 October.
The top team in the group earns an automatic spot in the World Cup next summer in the US and Mexico, while the second-placed team will enter a playoff.
Garcia acknowledged the challenges ahead: “Next month, we will be facing two opponents of a completely different calibre. Both matches will be decisive for World Cup qualification. We are looking forward to it, but we are not there yet.”
The Belgian team celebrates with fans following their 6-0 victory over Kazakhstan in Brussels, 7 September 2025 © BELGA PHOTO VIRGINIE LEFOUR