France hits back strongly in the final quarter

France hits back strongly in the final quarter

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Background

France coach Zinédine Zidane was able to do without some of his stars, demonstrating the depth and breadth of the squad. Players like Michael Olise and Rayan Cherki, who were instrumental in the final quarter victory, could prove to be important players for the future of the French national team, especially with the upcoming Nations League games in mind.

Why this is important

France's victory over Belgium in the Nations League not only improved their position in the table, but also showed that they are capable of putting in strong performances despite injuries to key players such as Kylian Mbappé. The Belgian team, which had to prove itself without its suspended stars Kevin de Bruyne and Youri Tielemans, also showed fighting spirit, but could not stop the French's superiority.

Key findings

• France hits back strongly in the final quarter.
• France triumphs 4-1 over Belgium in the Nations League after initially trailing.
• Frankrijk slaat in slotkwartier hard toe tegen dappere Belgen, ook Italië wint.

France picked up their third victory in the Nations League group stage against a bravely fighting Belgium at the Stade de France. After falling behind, the French managed to win the game 4-1 in the final minutes. The game was a repeat of the meeting on September 28th, in which Belgium also performed well but gave up shortly before the end of the game. Belgian coach Van Bommel had to change his starting eleven due to the suspensions of Kevin De Bruyne and Youri Tielemans. Six new players started in Paris compared to the previous game against Turkey. Including the debuting goalkeeper Maarten Vandevoordt, who was preferred over the regular goalkeeper Senne Lammens. France coach Zinédine Zidane, however, was able to do without some of his stars as Kylian Mbappé was out due to injury. Among others, Mike Maignan, Désiré Doué and Michael Olise initially sat on the bench. The French dominated the first half and put Belgium under pressure early on. After about 15 minutes, Bradley Barcola had a great chance, but the Liverpool player was denied by Vandevoordt. In the 35th minute, the Belgians surprised the Stade de France when Dodi Lukébakio gave Belgium the lead. After a great pass from Roméo Lavia, Lukébakio was able to take advantage of the chance and make it 1-0. Despite the deficit, France remained in control of the game while Belgium lurked on the counterattack, led by the speedy Diego Moreira. After an hour, Zidane brought on substitutes Olise and Cherki for Ousmane Dembélé and Maghnes Akliouche. This measure had an immediate effect: the French's pressure increased and Vandevoordt had to parry several shots from Olise and Cherki. Barcola was unlucky again when he missed the goal after a quick counterattack. France equalized in the 77th minute: Doué hit the net with a well-placed shot from around 20 meters. Just two minutes later it was Cherki who scored to make it 2-1 after an assist from Olise. In the 88th minute, Bayern Munich star Olise went one better and made it 3-1, before he himself set up the 4-1 that Doué scored. In the other group game, Italy celebrated a 3-1 win against Turkey in Bologna. Gianluca Scamacca, Riccardo Calafiori and Francesco Pio Esposito scored the goals for the Italians, while Aral Simsir scored the consolation goal for the Turks. After a draw against France, Italy now seems to be getting back on the road to success.

What happens next

With this victory, France has significantly increased its chances of a good placement in the group stage of the Nations League. Belgium, on the other hand, needs to reorient themselves after this setback and will try to come back in the coming games to achieve their goals for the season. Both teams will prepare for the next challenges in the Nations League, while Italy also won against Turkey.

Frequently asked questions

How did the France vs. Belgium game end?

France won the game against Belgium 4-1.

What impact does the victory have on the Nations League table?

France's victory in the group stage of the Nations League strengthens their position in the table.

When will France play in the Nations League next?

France's next game in the Nations League has not yet been decided.

Who scored the first goal for Belgium?

Dodi Lukébakio scored the first goal for Belgium.

Which players were missing from the Belgian team? Starting eleven against France?

Kevin De Bruyne and Youri Tielemans were missing due to suspensions.

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