Red-Hot North Macedonia Host Beleaguered Belgium in Pivotal World Cup 2026 Qualifier Showdown
Belgium hunts for first away win in 18 months, while North Macedonia eye historic giant-killing at fortress Skopje. All the key stats and storylines.
- Belgium’s FIFA Ranking: 8th — 59 places above North Macedonia
- North Macedonia’s Unbeaten Run: 8 matches (since June 2024)
- Lukaku Goals: 88 international goals — most in Belgian history
- Last Belgium Away Win: October 2023 vs Austria
Belgium’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has hit a nerve-wracking detour, as they travel to a resurgent North Macedonia squad that hasn’t tasted defeat in over a year. Friday’s face-off in a packed Skopje stadium promises fireworks and potentially a seismic shock.
While Belgium’s new manager, Rudi Garcia, is eyeing a crucial reset after a run of underwhelming results in Europe, North Macedonia continues to build momentum and confidence—dreaming of reaching their first-ever World Cup. Can the gritty Balkan hosts stage an upset, or will Belgium restore their battered reputation away from home?
Why Is This Belgium Side Under So Much Scrutiny?
Belgium enters this clash under new leadership after a managerial shake-up. Rudi Garcia has the unenviable task of reigniting a squad that underperformed at Euro 2024 and flirted with disaster in the UEFA Nations League. The Red Devils scraped through a relegation playoff but haven’t won away since that thrilling 3-2 against Austria in October 2023. That’s a long drought for a team with Kevin De Bruyne’s vision and Romelu Lukaku’s ruthless finishing.
With UEFA and FIFA ramping up global football coverage, all eyes are on whether Belgium’s “golden generation” still has the spark to conquer difficult away days like these.
Is North Macedonia the Dark Horse for World Cup 2026?
Absolutely. In the shadow of Europe’s football powerhouses, North Macedonia have become Group J’s ultimate wild cards. Fresh off promotion in the 2024 UEFA Nations League and fueled by a dominant 3-0 win over Liechtenstein plus a dramatic draw with Wales, they’ve built a fortress in Skopje. They haven’t lost a competitive game since falling to Italy last November.
Led by Enis Bardhi’s intensity and the clinical form of Girona striker Bojan Miovski, North Macedonia relish their underdog status. Their eight-game unbeaten streak, including a gritty last-minute equalizer in Wales, proves they’re ready for the big time.
Q: Who Are the Key Players to Watch?
– Belgium: Romelu Lukaku remains Europe’s most feared striker after a title-winning campaign for Napoli. Playmaker Kevin De Bruyne will seek to orchestrate from midfield, while Nottingham Forest’s Matz Sels steps up in goal with Thibaut Courtois injured.
– North Macedonia: Stole Dimitrievski commands the box, while captain Enis Bardhi inspires in attack. Bojan Miovski, with five goals in his last seven internationals, poses a major threat.
How Can North Macedonia Pull Off The Upset?
– Defend deep & frustrate Belgium’s midfield creators.
– Launch quick counters through Miovski and Bardhi.
– Harness the home atmosphere and extend their unbeaten run.
What Should Belgium Change to Get Their First Away Win in 18 Months?
– Exploit their superior technical skill with early pressure.
– Use Lukaku’s size and speed to target Macedonia’s back three.
– Settle quickly—avoid conceding first, as Skopje crowds can ignite Macedonian comebacks.
Who Has the Historical Edge?
Belgium. Out of four previous meetings, they’ve won three and drawn once, including two decisive away victories. But this Macedonia team, buoyed by history and momentum, won’t roll over.
Where to Follow the Action?
Catch all the drama and live updates on FIFA.com. For analysis and European football insights, visit UEFA and ESPN.
Bottom Line: Prediction and Takeaway
Expect tension, drama, and a closer contest than rankings suggest. Belgium holds the edge, but North Macedonia’s grit could push them all the way.
Prediction: North Macedonia 1-2 Belgium
Stay tuned for more World Cup qualifying drama—follow your team, and never miss a moment!
Matchday Checklist
- Set game alerts on FIFA.com
- Follow lineup news an hour before kickoff
- Watch for key matchups: Lukaku vs. Musliu, Bardhi vs. De Bruyne
- Track live stats and post-game analysis on UEFA
