Ousmane Dembele’s dazzling display helped France claim a 2-0 victory over Belgium in the UEFA Nations League on Monday night.
This much-needed win came just days after their disappointing 3-1 defeat to Italy. Dembele was the star of the show, not only scoring a brilliant goal but also playing a key role in Randal Kolo Muani’s opener as France bounced back in style.
The match, held in front of an excited crowd in Lyon, saw coach Didier Deschamps make significant changes to the French lineup, leaving captain Kylian Mbappe on the bench.
Key Highlights of France vs. Belgium
- Ousmane Dembele’s Performance: A goal and an assist for the Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) winger.
- Randal Kolo Muani’s Opener: The striker capitalized on Dembele’s deflected shot to give France the lead.
- Didier Deschamps’ Bold Changes: Eight changes to the lineup, including the absence of captain Mbappe.
- Kevin De Bruyne Struggles for Belgium: Despite his leadership, Belgium couldn’t find the back of the net.
- France’s Tactical Revival: A cohesive display by a revamped French side, regaining their footing after a tough loss to Italy.
France’s win lifts them to three points in Group A2, putting them level with Belgium. Meanwhile, Italy leads the group with six points after their victory over Israel. Let’s delve deeper into the performance of both teams, the tactical masterclass of Didier Deschamps, and what lies ahead in the Nations League campaign.
Dembele’s Brilliant Display: A Star is Reborn
Ousmane Dembele, often plagued by injury throughout his career, was at his electrifying best against Belgium. His ability to cut inside from the right flank and create danger was evident from the start.
In the 57th minute, he showcased his individual brilliance, weaving through the Belgian defense before blasting a left-footed shot into the net, sealing the game for France.
Earlier in the first half, Dembele had already left his mark on the game. His powerful shot was mishit, but Belgian goalkeeper Koen Casteels could only parry it into the path of Kolo Muani, who finished clinically.
Dembele’s overall performance was a reminder of his immense talent, and his contributions were crucial in France’s victory.
For France, Dembele’s return to form could not have come at a better time. His creativity, pace, and sharpness were instrumental in breaking down Belgium’s defense.
While many had doubted whether Dembele could regain his best form, this match served as a strong statement that the winger remains one of Europe’s most dangerous attacking threats.
France’s Lineup Shake-up: Deschamps’ Bold Moves Pay Off
With the pressure mounting after a 3-1 loss to Italy, French coach Didier Deschamps made eight changes to the starting lineup. Captain Kylian Mbappe, who had started in the previous match, was rested on the bench alongside other key players like Antoine Griezmann and Michael Olise.
Deschamps’ decision to rotate his squad was a tactical masterstroke. France started the game with a hunger and energy that had been lacking against Italy.
The introduction of players like Kolo Muani and Dembele brought speed and dynamism to France’s attack, while the backline held firm against Belgium’s attempts to find an equalizer.
France’s midfield also impressed, with players stepping up in the absence of Griezmann. The new-look French side showed composure and control, and Deschamps’ decision to rest his star players paid off as they secured the much-needed three points.
Belgium Struggles to Find an Answer
For Belgium, this match was a difficult test. After their comfortable 3-1 win against Israel, they came into this game hoping to build on that momentum.
However, they were unable to cope with France’s high pressing and quick counterattacks. Despite having talented players like Kevin De Bruyne, Belgium struggled to create clear-cut chances.
De Bruyne, who captained the side, tried to drive Belgium forward, but the French defense was solid. Belgium had some promising moments, but they lacked the clinical finishing needed to convert opportunities into goals.
The absence of Romelu Lukaku, who remains one of Belgium’s key goal-scoring threats, was felt as the team looked to their captain for inspiration but couldn’t break down France’s defense.
Kolo Muani Steps Up: A Rising Star
While Dembele was the star of the night, Randal Kolo Muani also played a significant role in France’s win. The forward, who has been making waves in Europe, took full advantage of the opportunity handed to him by Deschamps.
Kolo Muani was quick to react to the rebound from Dembele’s shot, slotting it into the net to give France the lead just before the half-hour mark.
Kolo Muani’s goal showcased his sharpness and poaching ability, and his movement off the ball was a constant threat to Belgium’s defense.
The 25-year-old striker has been developing rapidly, and his performance in this match proved that he is ready for the big stage. France will look to Kolo Muani to continue building on this momentum as the Nations League progresses.
The Impact of Key Substitutes: Mbappe, Griezmann, and Olise
Although Deschamps opted to start without some of his star players, Kylian Mbappe, Antoine Griezmann, and Michael Olise were introduced in the second half to help see out the game. Their presence provided fresh legs and experience, allowing France to maintain their control over Belgium.
Mbappe, though not on the scoresheet, played a vital role in pressing Belgium’s defense and preventing them from launching sustained attacks.
Griezmann’s vision and playmaking abilities helped stabilize the midfield, while Olise added another dimension to France’s attack with his dribbling skills.
The successful integration of these players from the bench showed the depth of France’s squad, a crucial factor that could give them an edge in the Nations League as they aim for top honors.
What Lies Ahead: The Road to Nations League Glory
With this victory, France moves to three points in Group A2, the same as Belgium. However, Italy sits comfortably at the top of the group with six points after their 2-1 victory over Israel.
The Nations League campaign is still wide open, with key matches in October that will determine which teams progress.
France will face Israel next in Budapest, while Belgium takes on Italy in a high-stakes encounter in Rome. These matches will be pivotal in shaping the outcome of Group A2.
For France, the win over Belgium has boosted their confidence, and they will now focus on building momentum heading into the next round of games.
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