Liechtenstein are in a qualifying group alongside Wales, Belgium, North Macedonia, and these opponents Kazakhstan.
Being one of the undoubted minnows within UEFA they will always face a struggle despite causing occasional surprises against much more superior countries.
This evening they succumbed to two quick goals by the visitors just before halftime.
Before a small but lively crowd in the Rheinpark stadion, including a group of Kazak fans, this qualifier settled into a mostly dominant display by the visiting team.
But it did take them some time to secure a breakthrough.
That was on 42 minutes when Samorodov reached a right sided cross to head in at the far post.
Within a couple of minutes it was 2-0 as defender Marochkin reached out to guide in a firm free kick.
Despite a generally well organised defence the home side had lost some concentration, and ultimately the game in those few minutes.
Inevitably Liechtenstein had to rely on limited possession and often the persistent chasing of forward Villiam Pizzi.
But it was the Kazak midfield guided by Zhukov who controlled most of the play.
Of particular interest for some was the visitors' 16-year-old striker Dastan Satpayev.
Of mid-height, with some pace he had limited opportunities in this game but is sure to figure prominently in future Kazakhstan matches.
In the end Kazakhstan recovered from their first matchday defeat while the home side can gain credit from staying strong in the second period and limiting the loss.
Report from Vaduz - John Bethell
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