Belgium Set for Crucial World Cup Qualifier Against Liechtenstein
The World Cup 2026 qualifiers are heating up, and one of the most talked about fixtures this week is Belgium’s trip to Vaduz to face Liechtenstein. On paper, this looks like a mismatch. Liechtenstein, currently sitting at the very bottom of Group J, have lost all three of their qualifying matches so far, conceding eight goals without scoring any. Their chances of qualifying are virtually gone, but pride and determination will still push them to give their best performance in front of home fans at Rheinpark Stadion.
Liechtenstein’s squad, managed by Konrad Fünfstuck, is largely made up of players from their domestic league or FC Vaduz, who play in the Swiss system. That makes this challenge even tougher when lining up against a footballing nation like Belgium. Their predicted formation is a compact 3-5-2, with goalkeeper Benjamin Büchel expected to face plenty of pressure. Players like Nicolas Hasler and Aron Sele in midfield will need to provide both defensive cover and creative spark, but the gulf in quality is undeniable.
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Belgium, meanwhile, are undergoing something of a transition. After the so-called “golden generation” faded, a younger group of players has been brought in under head coach Rudi Garcia. Despite a slightly shaky start to qualifying—drawing against North Macedonia and edging a chaotic 4-3 win over Wales—they remain heavy favorites in this clash. Ranked almost 200 places higher than their opponents, Belgium will be expected to take control from the opening whistle.
Kevin De Bruyne, even at 34, remains at the heart of this team. His vision, passing, and ability to score from midfield make him one of Belgium’s most reliable performers. In their last game against Wales, he scored once and created four chances, proving he’s still capable of dictating matches at the highest level. Jeremy Doku also impressed with a goal, and the winger will see this as another opportunity to shine and secure his starting place.
Rudi Garcia has freshened up his squad with new faces. Charles Vanhoutte has been rewarded for his strong season with Union Saint-Gilloise, while Club Brugge’s Joaquin Seys and Strasbourg goalkeeper Mike Penders have also been called up. Notably, Youri Tielemans has been handed the captain’s armband, signaling the leadership shift in this evolving side. Romelu Lukaku misses out due to injury, so the striking duties may fall to Lois Openda, who offers pace and finishing ability.
This match will also mark the first-ever competitive meeting between Liechtenstein and Belgium’s senior teams. The gap in history, experience, and rankings is enormous, but football always holds the possibility of surprise. Realistically, though, Belgium are expected to control possession, create chances at will, and come away with a comfortable win.
Kick-off is set for Thursday, September 4, at 8:45 p.m. local time in Vaduz. While Liechtenstein will be playing for pride, Belgium see this as a crucial step in keeping their World Cup qualifying campaign on track.
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