Belgium winger Jeremy Doku didn’t hold back after his side failed to secure World Cup qualification in a disappointing 1–1 draw away to Kazakhstan on Saturday. A win would’ve wrapped up top spot in Group J, but the Red Devils stumbled once again in a campaign that has already raised eyebrows.
Kazakhstan, already out of the running, struck first inside the opening 10 minutes when Dastan Satpaev punished a defensive error. Belgium eventually responded early in the second half through Hans Vanaken, yet even with the hosts going down to 10 men late on, Rudi Garcia’s men couldn’t find a winner.
The result means Belgium must still finish the job at home against Liechtenstein on Tuesday. A victory would confirm their place in North America, while even a draw should be enough — but the mood in the camp appears tense.
Speaking to Sporza after the match, Doku made it clear he expects more from the entire squad.
“We’ve already dropped too many points because we weren’t good enough in several matches,” the Manchester City star said. “This campaign hasn’t been good. Everyone has to step up — the coach, me, the whole team.”
Doku was also asked whether the absence of senior figures like Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Thibaut Courtois offered any explanation. He immediately dismissed the idea.
“If we need Kevin, Romelu or Thibaut just to beat Kazakhstan, then we won’t survive at the World Cup,” he replied.
The 23-year-old also hinted that Belgium may have underestimated their opponents, admitting their pre-match preparation fell short.
“We expected them to play long, but they kept the ball on the ground and tried to play. It was a completely different game from the last time. Maybe we didn’t analyse them well enough.”
Defender Arthur Theate, who was involved in the mistake that led to Kazakhstan’s goal, also faced criticism. After owning up to his error, he pushed back when questioned about Belgium’s defensive issues.
“I feel like it’s always the defence that gets targeted,” he said, clearly frustrated.
Belgium now face a crucial final qualifying match — and it’s clear the atmosphere around the team will be tense until they secure the ticket they failed to claim this weekend.
