Can North Macedonia Leapfrog Wales? All Eyes on High-Stakes Clash With Kazakhstan in 2025 Qualifying Showdown
North Macedonia eyes the summit in their World Cup group, facing a shaky Kazakhstan. Will this underdog story rewrite the leaderboard?
• North Macedonia unbeaten in last 9 matches
• Kazakhstan has lost 12 of their last 15 games
• North Macedonia could go 1st in group with a win
• Kazakhstan conceded 24 goals in last 10 outings
World Cup fever grips Astana Arena on Monday as Kazakhstan hosts North Macedonia in a pivotal UEFA qualifying battle. With both sides fighting for their Qatar 2026 dreams, this match could flip Group D on its head. North Macedonia stands just two points behind group leaders Wales—victory could see them stun pundits and storm into first place.
Momentum is with the visitors. North Macedonia’s gritty 1-1 stalemate on Friday against powerhouse Belgium marks their sixth clean sheet in nine matches, sparking national optimism. While their recent victories came against lower-tier opposition, this resilient squad has proven it can frustrate heavyweights and quietly stack up points.
Kazakhstan faces a far steeper mountain. The Hawks did defeat Liechtenstein 2-0 in March, but continued defensive woes plague them, with 24 goals shipped over 10 matches. World Cup qualification as an independent nation has proved elusive, a trend unlikely to change as they compete with the likes of Belgium and Wales.
As tension builds, local fans remember the last time these sides met—North Macedonia hammered Kazakhstan 4-0 in 2021, albeit after an early sending off for the hosts. Can Kazakhstan turn the tables, or will their home ground prove a fortress once again for the underdogs?
Q&A: What’s on the Line for Each Team?
Can North Macedonia Top the Group?
Absolutely. With Wales idle, a win leapfrogs North Macedonia into first place. Their robust form—unbeaten in nine and six wins—suggests they could upset the expected order, a possibility that would send shockwaves across UEFA qualifiers.
Are Kazakhstan’s Defensive Issues Fatal?
Kazakhstan’s backline leaks goals under pressure—a dangerous flaw. They have lost 12 of their last 15 matches and have failed to capitalize on home advantage, losing three and drawing one of their last five in Astana.
Who are the Key Players to Watch?
North Macedonia’s attack will likely be led by Enis Bardhi, Bojan Miovski, and Eljif Elmas, supported by a tenacious midfield shield of Jani Atanasov and Tihomir Kostadinov. Kazakhstan’s hopes rest on keeper Mukhamedjan Seisen and striker Dastan Satpayev, who must break a stubborn Macedonian defense.
How Can Kazakhstan Upset the Odds?
For Kazakhstan to pull off a surprise, they must tighten defensive lines and capitalize early through flanking wingers Islam Chesnokov and Maksim Samorodov. Pressuring North Macedonia’s attackers and exploiting set-piece moments is crucial. Team discipline will be vital—previous matches saw costly red cards, as in their heavy loss to Monday’s rivals.
How to Watch and What’s Next?
Don’t miss this high-stakes encounter—check listings via FIFA or your local broadcaster. As the group heats up, the result could reshape the road to 2026, bringing fresh drama to European qualifying.
Prediction: Who Takes the Points?
Statistical analysis favors North Macedonia, calling for a narrow 1-0 away win (55% probability). Kazakhstan remains dangerous but inconsistent, setting the stage for a tense, tactical duel in Astana.
Don’t Miss the Drama—Follow the Action and Share Your Predictions!
- Watch the game live for real-time thrills.
- Track World Cup qualifying stats on ESPN and BBC Sport.
- Discuss the match with friends and on social media.
- Check back for updates as the World Cup race intensifies.
