ASTANA, Kazakhstan, Nov 16, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - Belgium missed the chance to seal their place at the 2026 World Cup after being held to a 1-1 draw in Kazakhstan on Saturday, sending their qualification hopes down to the wire.

They now turn to Tuesday's home clash with Liechtenstein, where a positive result should secure their ticket to the finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Belgium fell behind in the ninth minute to a strike from Dastan Satpaev but hit back early in the second half through Hans Vanaken.

The standout performer was Kazakhstan's 22-year-old goalkeeper Temirlan Anarbekov of Kairat Almaty, who delivered a superb display in just his second full international appearance.

Belgium remain top of Group J with 15 points and, thanks to their strong goal difference, are likely to clinch qualification with at least a draw on Tuesday.