A déjà vu. Just like in 2018, the French have the last laugh after a semi-final against the Red Devils. The improbable comeback of les Bleus was reason enough for the local press to give the praises… and still give a little sneer to the Belgians.
L’Equipe: “Belgium never existed after rest”
Of course we start with the leading L’Equipe.
“Les Bleus were stunning,” the newspaper said.
“However, nobody believed in this outcome at half-time. France was completely turned upside down after Belgium punished the holes in the defense twice. The merit is great if you can then fight back mentally. With the exception of a bang from De Bruyne and the disapproved Goal by Lukaku, Belgium did not exist after the break.”
L’Equipe especially puts feathers on the hat of Kylian Mbappé for the comeback. “He was the architect who awakened France after the break. He improved the game and wreaked havoc in the Belgian camp with his tempo changes, accelerations and unpredictable dribbles.”
Le Figaro: “Years of nightmares for Belgian neighbors”
“Beautiful and bold: les Bleus break through (again) the Belgian dream”, titles Le Figaro in large letters.
“It was a crazy game with lots of action, an exciting storyline and world-class players. This Belgium – France will remain in everyone’s memory for a long time.”
“The 2-0 at halftime was brutal for the French side, but logical given the dominance of the Red Devils, carried by the magnificent trio De Bruyne – Hazard – Lukaku.”
“The second half was as crazy as it was indecisive, as seductive as it was delicious. No doubt Mbappe, Griezmann and Benzema were bored with the staging of the Belgians before half-time and decided to gear up afterwards.”
“In the end, France was rewarded for their strength, resilience and self-confidence. Values that led them to the world title in 2018.”
Le Figaro concludes his match report with a jab at the Belgians: “Just like in 2018, our Belgian neighbors run the risk of having nightmares for many months, even years.”
Le Parisien: “An epic match”
“France has lived up to its status as world champion,” said Le Parisien. “They refused to continue the mediocrity of the first half and came out of the dressing room with a lot of struggle.”
“The penalty of the 2-2 symbolized courage,” the newspaper said. “There were still demons to chase away from Kylian Mbappe after his missed penalty at the European Championship against Switzerland. And what did he do? He took his responsibility by blasting the penalty kick past one of the best goalkeepers in the world, Thibaut Courtois. “
“This Belgium – France was an epic match. With two teams that were on the appointment in the Nations League.
