1/9 crosses, 4/10 duels: £19m Arsenal star delivers poor performance on Int'l duty, lost the ball 21 times

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05:36

Belgium played out a frustrating 1-1 draw against Kazakhstan in a World Cup qualifier on Saturday.

The Red Devils had the opportunity to qualify for the World Cup with a victory, but were unable to beat the 115th-ranked side.

Leandro Trossard was named the makeshift striker for Belgium, but he primarily operated in an attacking midfield position.

The 30-year-old had a forgettable outing. He won just four out of 10 duels contested and lost possession on 21 occasions.

Trossard delivered just one out of nine crosses. He had a good scoring opportunity where he hesitated too long to shoot.

The stalemate means Belgium have not mathematically qualified for the World Cup in North America next summer.

They still have a two-point lead over North Macedonia with a superior goal difference and should beat Liechtenstein next week.

It remains to be seen whether Trossard gets the nod in the starting line-up after a below-par performance against Kazakhstan.

Regardless, the £19 million-rated star should start for the Gunners against Tottenham Hotspur next weekend.

The 30-year-old has been consistent with his performances at club level, contributing four goals and four assists this season.

Trossard scored with a stunning strike from the edge of the box against Sunderland before the break.

While Trossard is poised to make the XI, Arsenal have been handed a double injury blow for the north London derby.

Riccardo Calafiori has returned early from international duty with Italy, having missed the Moldova game with a hip issue.

Gabriel Magalhaes sustained a groin injury playing for Brazil against Senegal and was substituted at the hour mark.

The latter’s injury seems more concerning, and he could be a big doubt for the upcoming Premier League encounter.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

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