Kazakhstan vs North Macedonia Match Details
FIFA World Cup European Qualifiers: Kazakhstan vs North Macedonia – Clash for Group Dominance
Kazakhstan vs North Macedonia Match Preview: The FIFA World Cup European Qualifiers continue to deliver thrilling encounters as teams vie for a spot in the prestigious 2026 tournament. On Monday, June 9, 2025, football fans will turn their attention to Astana Arena, where Kazakhstan will host North Macedonia in a crucial Group J encounter.
North Macedonia enter this match with a significant boost in confidence, having recently held group favorites Belgium to a 1-1 draw. This result underscores their resilience and tactical discipline, making them a formidable opponent. Blagoja Milevski’s side has been in impressive form, boasting an unbeaten run of nine games, including six wins. They currently sit second in their group, showcasing their ambition to qualify for the World Cup for the first time as an independent nation. Key players like Bojan Miovski, who has been consistently among the goals, will be crucial for their attacking prowess. Their defensive solidity, with six clean sheets in their recent victories, also highlights their disciplined approach.
On the other hand, Kazakhstan has faced a tougher run of results. While they managed a 2-0 victory over Liechtenstein in their last qualifying fixture, their overall form has been concerning, with 12 losses in their last 15 matches. The Hawks, managed by Ali Aliev, will need to tighten their defense, having conceded 24 goals in their last 10 outings. Despite the home advantage at Astana Arena, overcoming a confident North Macedonia side will be a significant challenge. Maxim Samorodov, who found the net against Liechtenstein, will be a player to watch for the Kazakhs.
Historically, North Macedonia has had the upper hand in their solitary previous encounter, securing a dominant 4-0 victory in 2021. While a repeat of that margin is unlikely, North Macedonia’s current form and strategic approach suggest they are well-positioned to continue their positive momentum.
Kazakhstan vs North Macedonia Fantasy Tips
For fantasy football enthusiasts, North Macedonia players are likely to be more valuable picks.
- Goalkeeper & Defenders (North Macedonia): Given North Macedonia’s recent defensive solidity and clean sheets, their goalkeeper (Stole Dimitrievski) and key defenders (Andrej Stojchevski, Gjoko Zajkov, Visar Musliu) could fetch good points.
- Midfielders (North Macedonia): Enis Bardhi and Eljif Elmas are likely to be involved in attacking plays and could contribute with goals or assists.
- Forward (North Macedonia): Bojan Miovski is a strong contender for goal-scoring opportunities and is a prime fantasy pick.
- Kazakhstan Differentials: While overall form is against them, if you are looking for a differential, Maxim Samorodov could be an option for Kazakhstan, given his recent goal-scoring.
Kazakhstan vs North Macedonia Match Prediction
Considering North Macedonia’s superior form, defensive stability, and their impressive draw against Belgium, they are strong favorites to win this match. Kazakhstan will undoubtedly put up a fight on home soil, but North Macedonia’s current momentum and tactical discipline should see them secure all three points. A low-scoring affair is expected, with North Macedonia likely to win by a narrow margin, potentially keeping a clean sheet.
Predicted Score: Kazakhstan 0-1 North Macedonia
