Belgium Clinches World Cup Spot vs Liechtenstein

Belgium's Road to North America: Final Qualifying Showdown

The Red Devils stand on the brink of securing their fourth consecutive FIFA World Cup appearance as they host Liechtenstein in a decisive UEFA Group J qualifier. Belgium faces the winless minnows on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at Stade Maurice-Dufrasne in Liège, needing only a point to punch their ticket to the expanded 48-team tournament in North America.

Group J Standings and Stakes

Currently top of Group J with 15 points, Belgium remains unbeaten in seven matches. However, their draw with Kazakhstan (1-1) on Saturday left them needing to rely on this match. A victory guarantees qualification, while a draw would suffice unless North Macedonia and Wales produce an unlikely result that overtakes Belgium's goal difference advantage. Liechtenstein, meanwhile, sits at the bottom with zero points after seven defeats, having failed to score a single goal while conceding 24.

Liechtenstein's Historic Struggles

The tiny principality's futility continues against European giants. Their last competitive victory came against San Marino in 2020, and they've been outscored 24-0 in this qualifying campaign. Belgium's 6-0 demolition of Liechtenstein in September 2025 underscores the gulf in quality, with experts predicting another rout when these teams meet.

Belgium's Injury Woes and Player Concerns

Despite their comfortable position, Belgium faces significant challenges. Captain Kevin De Bruyne remains sidelined with a hamstring tear until early 2026, while prolific striker Romelu Lukaku continues his recovery from a thigh injury. Manchester City winger Jérémy Doku voiced post-match frustration after the Kazakhstan draw:

"Our opponents don't have many chances, but they manage to score. If we want to go to the World Cup, we have to score goals."

The Importance of Direct Qualification

Securing top spot matters beyond mere progression. As one of UEFA's 16 top seeds, Belgium will be placed in Pot 1 for the World Cup draw, avoiding hosts Canada, USA, Mexico, and tournament favorites like France and Argentina until the knockout stages. The 48-team format sees 12 groups of four, with top two finishers plus eight best third-placed teams advancing to the round of 32.

Where to Watch: Full Streaming Details

Fans can catch all the action live in the United States on FOX Sports 2. Streaming options include:

• FuboTV: $84.99/month (7-day free trial, $20 off first month)
• DirecTV Stream: $69.99/month (5-day free trial)
• ViX (Prime Video): Available via Prime Video subscription

Match Preview & Prediction

With World Cup qualification on the line against a team without a competitive win in five years, Belgium is heavily favored. Betting markets predict a dominant performance, with forecasts ranging from 5-0 to 6-0 victories. Belgium's attacking depth, even without De Bruyne and Lukaku, should overwhelm Liechtenstein's defense. [IMAGE_2: Stade Maurice-Dufrasne stadium illuminated for night match]

What's Next for Belgium

Regardless of Tuesday's result, Belgium's focus will shift to preparing for the World Cup group stage draw. The Red Devils aim to build momentum and resolve their scoring inefficiencies that have haunted them in qualifying clinches. With star players expected back by summer, Belgium remains a dark horse contender for North American glory.