Belgium chase double World Cup qualification
As Belgium's footballers look to complete their World Cup qualification, the country's rugby team prepares for a rare shot at history. One task should be straightforward, while the other could turn into a sporting fairy tale.
The Red Devils need only avoid defeat against group minnows Liechtenstein in Liège to secure their place at next year’s World Cup in North America. They lead their group by two points, and a draw should be enough thanks to their superior goal difference.
They were unable to secure qualification at the weekend after a surprise 1-1 draw in Kazakhstan. Injuries continue to mount, with Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku both sidelined.
A win on Tuesday night would see them finish top of Group J and guarantee a Pot 1 seeding, which would help them avoid early meetings with major contenders such as France or Argentina.
Rugby underdogs
Earlier in the day, Belgium’s rugby team face Samoa for the final place at the 2027 World Cup. Belgium have never qualified, while Samoa are regulars on the world stage and clear favourites.
Coach Laurent Dossat insists discipline will be Belgium’s key weapon, though back-to-back victories over Namibia and Brazil have boosted confidence.
“It’s the biggest match of our lives,” Belgium's Thomas Wallraf told Het Nieuwsblad.
The Belgian national football team prepare for their last World Cup 2026 qualification match against Liechtenstein © BELGA PHOTO BRUNO FAHY
Related news
