Kazakhstan - Moldova

Can Kazakhstan leverage home advantage at Astana Arena to regain momentum when they face Moldova on 2 October 2026? Both sides enter this matchday 3 fixture seeking a first win in the group stage. Kazakhstan is expected to lead with the attacking trio of Ramazan Karimov, Zhasulan Amir, and Ismail Bekbolat, though the absence of the injured Dastan Satpaev will test their tactical depth. Moldova will likely rely on the defensive experience of Oleg Reabciuk and Iurie Iovu to stifle the hosts, as they look to improve upon their own recent results.

Form has been challenging for both nations, with Kazakhstan coming off a 2-1 defeat to Slovakia and a 1-1 draw against the Faroe Islands. Moldova similarly struggled in their last outing, drawing 1-1 with the Faroe Islands after a 2-0 loss to Slovakia. These teams share a competitive history, most recently meeting in a 2022 relegation playoff where they traded home victories. With points at a premium in this group, both sides will be eager to establish control early in a match that promises to be a tight tactical battle.