Belgium’s chance to wrap up 2026 World Cup qualification early was dramatically missed on Saturday after they were held to a surprise 1-1 draw by already-eliminated Kazakhstan in Astana.
The Red Devils, who had previously thrashed Kazakhstan 6-0, were stunned in the ninth minute when 17-year-old Dastan Satpaev scored to give the home side a shock lead.
Belgium struggled against a resilient defence and some fine saves but eventually equalised three minutes into the second half through a Hans Vanaken header (48′).
Despite Kazakhstan being reduced to 10 men late on following a red card for Islam Chesnokov (79′), Belgium failed to find the winner.
The result means Belgium remains top of Group J but must now secure a win against Liechtenstein on Tuesday to cement automatic qualification for the World Cup.
