It was a costly evening for the hosts, who had previously beaten Italy in the tournament’s opening round. The defeat leaves Belgium with a mixed result in their campaign, while France moves to the top of their group with two wins from two matches. In other action on Matchday 2, Italy bounced back in style to thump Turkey 4-1 in rainy conditions, reviving their own Nations League campaign. Sweden defeated Poland 3-1, Bosnia and Herzegovina overcame Romania 4-2, and Northern Ireland held Hungary to a goalless draw.
Zidane fielded a refreshed lineup for his second game in charge, handing full debuts to Lucas Da Cunha, Jérémy Jacquet, Andy Diouf, and Esteban Lepaul. Despite the inexperience, France controlled the tempo for much of the encounter. Esteban Lepaul had the first opportunity, teed up by Warren Doué, but failed to test Belgium goalkeeper Simon Lammens. Doué, who was instrumental in France’s attacks, sliced through the Belgian defense with quick feet but was denied by the woodwork in one of several close calls for the visitors.
Belgium launched counter-attacks of their own. Kevin De Bruyne looked to find Charles De Ketelaere, but Da Cunha intercepted the Napoli midfielder’s cross to smother the threat. Akliouche tested Lammens from distance with a free kick, and the goalkeeper continued to be a key figure, denying Lepaul from a tight angle and clearing a dangerous chance for Kieran Kalulu off the line after a deflection.
The second half saw continued French pressure, with Doué going close to finding the bottom corner before seeing his effort go wide. Da Cunha also had a long-range effort denied by the post. Belgium’s chance to equalize or take the lead came from William Moreira, who went close on the hour mark, and Arthur Lukebakio, who burst through on goal but was stopped by Mike Maignan. As the final third of the match approached, Belgium appeared to gain ascendancy, with Michael Godts firing into the side netting from a tight angle.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 88th minute. Olise brought the ball down with a touch on his shoulder in his own half before launching a solo run towards the Belgian penalty area. Displaying exceptional footwork, he navigated through the defense and picked out the bottom corner with a calm finish. The goal, described as a “wonder goal,” left Zidane overjoyed on the sidelines and secured the three points for France.
The result confirms Zidane’s strong start to his tenure as France boss, following a winning debut in Matchday 1. The team’s ability to break down a well-organized Belgian defense, despite heavy early changes to the squad, suggests resilience and tactical flexibility. Next, France will look to maintain their momentum in upcoming fixtures, while Belgium will seek to bounce back from this setback in their push for qualification in the Nations League.
