- Fixture: North Macedonia vs Belgium
- Date: Friday, 6 June 2025
- Venue: Toše Proeski Arena, Skopje
Match Preview
North Macedonia welcomes Belgium to Skopje for a crucial UEFA World Cup Qualifier on Friday night. The hosts have made a promising start to Group J, sitting atop the table with 4 points from their opening two matches, including a resilient 1-1 draw against Wales in their last outing. Belgium, meanwhile, are yet to play in this campaign but enter the qualifiers eager to reassert their status as group favorites after a mixed run of results in the UEFA Nations League and European Championship.
North Macedonia’s form has been impressive, with their recent results showing a team that is tough to break down and capable of springing surprises. Their last five matches include a draw with Wales and a win over Liechtenstein, underlining their defensive solidity and growing confidence on home soil. The Macedonians will be hoping to channel the spirit that saw them defeat Germany and Italy in previous qualifiers, and coach Blagoja Milevski will look to his side’s collective organization to frustrate their illustrious visitors.
Belgium, on the other hand, have endured a turbulent period. Despite a convincing 3-0 win over Ukraine in March to secure a Nations League playoff victory, the Red Devils suffered losses to France and Italy late last year, highlighting some defensive vulnerabilities. To add to their concerns, star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is a major injury doubt and is unlikely to feature in Skopje, leaving manager Rudi Garcia with a decision to make between Matz Sels, Senne Lammens, or Maarten Vandevoordt between the posts. Nevertheless, with Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Jérémy Doku available, Belgium’s attacking options remain formidable.
In terms of injuries and suspensions, Belgium’s main worry is the likely absence of Courtois, which could impact their defensive organization and confidence at the back. North Macedonia, meanwhile, are expected to field a full-strength squad, with no major injury concerns reported ahead of the match.
Key Players
- North Macedonia:
- Ilza Maksuti (top scorer in recent matches)
- Hava Mustafa (key creative force)
- Viktorija Panchurova (reliable in midfield)
- Captain Stefan Ristovski (defensive leader)
- Belgium:
- Kevin De Bruyne (creative engine and captain)
- Romelu Lukaku (prolific striker)
- Jérémy Doku (pace and flair on the wing)
- Leandro Trossard (versatile forward)
Prediction
While North Macedonia’s home form and defensive discipline could make this a tricky encounter for Belgium, the visitors’ superior individual quality and experience at this level should ultimately prove decisive. Expect Belgium to control possession and create more chances, though they may need to be patient to break down a well-organized Macedonian defense. The absence of Courtois could give the hosts hope, but Belgium’s attacking firepower is likely to be the difference.
Predicted score: North Macedonia 0-2 Belgium
Betting Markets & Odds
| Market | Fractional Odds | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| Belgium to win | 4/9 | Bet Now |
| Draw | 18/5 | Bet Now |
| North Macedonia to win | 8/1 | Bet Now |
| Both Teams to Score: No | 8/13 | Bet Now |
| Over 2.5 Goals | 13/10 | Bet Now |
| Under 2.5 Goals | 8/13 | Bet Now |
| Correct Score 0-2 | 6/1* | Bet Now |
*Approximate odds based on market averages.
This match promises a fascinating clash of styles: North Macedonia’s resilience and home support versus Belgium’s technical superiority and depth. While an upset can never be ruled out in Skopje, the smart money is on Belgium to get their qualifying campaign off to a winning start.
