Belgium-Liechtenstein World Cup Qualifier Status Uncertain Amidst Local Official’s Conditions
The Belgian Union announced that the qualification match for the 2026 world Cup against Liechtenstein would be played in Sclessin on November 18. Fans are delighted, but there is a little concern.
Contacted by Sudinfo, the bourgmestre of Liège, Willy Demeyer, tempered expectations, stating, “At a time when we speak, there is no agreement.” He believes the Belgian Union is proceeding as if everything has been settled.
Demeyer highlighted a fundamental issue: the significant cost to the city for organizing an international match, along with the pressure on police resources. “Our priority is to fight drug addiction, not to secure football matches,” he emphasized.
However, the door is not entirely closed. An agreement is still possible, but only if the match incurs no cost to the city of Liège and does not require the mobilization of already heavily tasked police forces.
The Belgian Union must adjust its approach. Before the match can proceed at Sclessin, the bourgmestre must be convinced of the proposed arrangements.
Evergreen Insights
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first to feature an expanded 48-team format. Qualification matches are crucial for national teams to secure their spot in the tournament, which is jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. International football federations, like the Royal Belgian
