Belgium vs North Macedonia Preview
It’s a huge week for Belgium as they enter what many are calling their “make-or-break” stretch in World Cup qualifying. The Red Devils need a win either against North Macedonia on Friday or Wales next week to keep their campaign on track – but ideally, they’ll grab both and take full control of their group.
And honestly, they look in good shape to do it. Rudi Garcia’s men absolutely demolished Kazakhstan and Liechtenstein last month, both by a whopping 6-0 scoreline. That attacking flow is back, and even without Romelu Lukaku leading the line, goals are flying in from all over the pitch.
Jeremy Doku, Malick Fofana, and Youri Tielemans all found the net in those matches, while Kevin De Bruyne was on another level, bagging three goals himself.
Form Guide
Belgium are flying right now – two huge 6-0 wins on the bounce, and three home victories in a row with a total score of 13-3. The vibes are good, the team’s confident, and they’ve rediscovered that killer instinct.
North Macedonia, on the other hand, haven’t had much joy away from home. They’ve dropped three of their last four qualifiers on the road, losing by an average margin of four goals. When they travel, they tend to leak goals… and against Belgium, that’s bad news.
Head-to-Head
The last time these two met, it ended 1-1 after a late equaliser from Ezgjan Alioski – a proper shock result that saved North Macedonia from defeat. But playing Belgium in Brussels is a whole different ball game. The Red Devils have been ruthless at home, and history suggests this one could get ugly for the visitors.
Team News
Romelu Lukaku remains sidelined, but that’s not slowing Belgium down. De Bruyne looks fully motivated again after a rough patch last year, and that’s a massive plus. The creativity in this squad is unreal, with plenty of options across midfield and attack.
At the back, Thibaut Courtois continues to be the rock – calm, composed, and nearly unbeatable when in form. Expect Garcia to stick with the same core lineup that delivered those two big wins last month.
North Macedonia don’t have any major surprises – though they’ll need Alioski and Elmas to step up big time if they’re to cause another upset.
Prediction
Everything points to another comfortable Belgium win here. They’re scoring for fun, defending solidly, and playing at home where they rarely slip up. North Macedonia have struggled badly on the road, and this doesn’t look like the place they’ll turn things around.
Prediction: Belgium 3–0 North Macedonia
Alternative: Belgium -2 Handicap
Players to Watch
Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium): When he’s smiling, Belgium are winning. The captain’s form is electric, pulling the strings and chipping in with goals himself.
Jeremy Doku (Belgium): Lightning pace, constant danger, and starting to add end product – a nightmare for any fullback.
Ezgjan Alioski (North Macedonia): The veteran will try to lift his side again, but he’ll have his hands full keeping Belgium’s wingers quiet.
Betting Tips
Belgium to Win with -2 Handicap – The Red Devils are in top gear and should have too much class.
Over 2.5 Goals – Belgium alone could clear that line the way they’re attacking lately.
De Bruyne Anytime Scorer – He’s in the mood and on penalty duty, worth a punt.
Wrap Up
Belgium’s confidence is sky-high, and everything suggests another big home win is coming. North Macedonia will fight, but this looks set to be another statement performance from the Red Devils. Expect goals, dominance, and probably another clean sheet for Courtois and co.
Final Pick: Belgium 3–0 North Macedonia ✅