Belgium vs France Player Ratings: Olise Decides as Zidane’s New-Look Bleus Triumph

Match Summary and Tactical Setup

Zinedine Zidane deployed a reshuffled tactical formation for his second outing in charge of Les Bleus. Facing a Belgian squad led by Mark Van Bommel, the French visitors controlled long stretches of the midfield while absorbing intermittent pressure during the second half. Mike Maignan anchored the defense with key interventions, including a vital 73rd-minute stop against Lukebakio and a proactive clearance outside his penalty area to deny Mika Godts.

Player Ratings: The Midfield Engine

Midfielder Lucas Da Cunha delivered a standout performance in a deep-lying playmaker role. Operating as the team’s sentinelle, the Como player dictated the tempo with precise distribution, controlled Kevin De Bruyne’s influence, and struck the goalpost with a long-range effort in the 53rd minute. Eduardo Camavinga provided defensive stability and progressive ball-carrying from box to box, earning praise for his composure under pressure. Maghnes Akliouche contributed significant defensive work rate alongside Désiré Doué, though outlets noted occasional early wastefulness in possession.

Standout Attackers and Defensive Evaluations

Désiré Doué emerged as one of the match’s most dynamic offensive threats, repeatedly testing the Belgian defense with close-control dribbling and hitting the crossbar in the first half. Michael Olise proved decisive off the bench by breaking the deadlock, while Bradley Barcola displayed pace on the flanks despite occasional wayward final decisions. In defense, newcomer Jérémy Jacquet earned strong marks for neutralizing Charles De Ketelaere in physical duels, while Maxence Lacroix and Pierre Kalulu maintained a clean sheet despite late Belgian pressure.

Upcoming Schedule and Group Context

With away fixtures now completed, Les Bleus return to home soil to face Italy on Friday in Saint-Denis.