Kazakhstan vs Liechtenstein

The fixture is a World Cup 2026 European Qualifying match in Group J between Kazakhstan and Liechtenstein on Friday, 10 October 2025. It will be played at Astana Arena in Astana, Kazakhstan, with kick-off scheduled for 14:00 UTC. This match marks a key opportunity for Kazakhstan to strengthen their position in the group against one of the lowest-ranked teams in Europe. The Astana Arena, with its artificial pitch and closed roof, offers a controlled environment that favors the home side’s quick passing and high-tempo play.

Regarding squad announcements and absences, Kazakhstan confirmed their final squad on 7 October 2025 under acting head coach Talgat Baysufinov, ahead of their double-header against Liechtenstein and North Macedonia. The list includes 38 players, many from the domestic league, such as those from FC Astana and Tobol Kostanay. There were no significant injuries or suspensions reported within the squad. For Liechtenstein, defenders Fabio Wolfinger, Andreas Malin, and Lars Traber were reportedly unavailable, reducing the team’s defensive depth. Since both sides are using these fixtures to experiment, several substitutions are expected throughout the game.

Tactically, Kazakhstan are anticipated to play in a 3-4-2-1 system, emphasizing control through midfield and overlapping wing-backs to stretch Liechtenstein’s compact defense. Nuraly Alip and Sergey Maliy are likely to anchor the back line, with Bauyrzhan Islamkhan and Abat Aimbetov key in attack. Kazakhstan will aim to dominate possession and apply pressure through wide areas. Liechtenstein, by contrast, are expected to adopt a defensive 5-4-1 formation, focusing on deep organization, narrow spacing, and counterattacks when possible. Their game plan will likely rely on set pieces and rare breaks down the flanks.

In the media build-up, sports outlets across Europe have pointed out the stark difference in form between the two teams. Kazakhstan have struggled to convert possession into goals during qualifying but remain heavy favorites at home. Liechtenstein, meanwhile, enter the match winless and have scored only once in their past ten competitive games. Most press previews predict a Kazakhstan victory, though several note that the hosts’ inefficiency in front of goal might limit the scoreline. Analysts and betting sites commonly expect a low-scoring game, with under 2.5 total goals considered likely.

In studio analysis and pundit discussions before kickoff, much attention has been given to whether Kazakhstan can finally produce a convincing performance against a lower-ranked opponent. Commentators have noted that Bielsa’s replacement, Baysufinov, will be judged on how well his tactical setup converts dominance into results. Analysts are also watching the substitutions closely to see if Kazakhstan’s younger players can make an impression. On the other side, Liechtenstein’s resilience and discipline remain the main talking points. Pundits agree that while Kazakhstan should win comfortably, the match will serve as an important test of their attacking depth and composure in front of their home fans.

Watch and Download Kazakhstan vs Liechtenstein full match replay and highlights, At Friday, October 10, 2025. The match played at Astana Arena, in World Cup Qualifying, UEFA.

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