World Cup qualifiers 2026: Kazakhstan-Wales, likely lineups

In the tight schedule of World Cup 2026 qualifiers, it will be Kazakhstan-Wales, a match valid for Group J, that opens on Thursday, September 4. Kickoff will be at 6 p.m. at the Astana Arena. In the first leg the guests won 3-1.

Aliev opts for a 5-4-1 with Kenzhebek and Chesnokov deployed at full-back on either side of the midfield duo of Zaynutdinov and Muzhikov. Up front, space for the only forward Samorodov.

Bellamy must do without the injured Broadhead, Ward, Ampadu and Ramsey. Space therefore is made for Brooks, Thomas and Wilson in midfield with James and Johnson on the flanks. In attack will be Moore.

Probable lineups

Kazakhstan (5-4-1): Seysen; Vorogovskiy, Alip, Maliy, Kairov, Astanov; Kenzhebek, Zaynutdinov, Muzhikov, Chesnokov; Samorodov. Coach: Aliev.

Wales (4-5-1): Darlow; Davies, Mepham, Rodon, Williams; James, Brooks, Thomas, Wilson, Johnson; Moore. Coach: Bellamy