Zinedine Zidane addressed the media following France’s 4-1 victory over Belgium at the Stade de France, praising the team’s second-half resurgence and reflecting on a busy opening fortnight as national team coach.
Second-Half Turnaround at the Stade de France
France finished its international window on a high note in Saint-Denis during the fourth matchday of the UEFA Nations League group stage, overcoming an initial deficit to secure a convincing win. Zidane noted that the tactical shift after the interval completely altered the dynamic of the fixture.
“It’s true that the second half changed, even though not everything in the first half should be thrown away,” Zidane said. “We lacked penetration in the final 30 meters, something that was missing in our three matches. Our second half when we equalized was a completely different match. It’s everyone’s reaction. We end on a very positive note after fifteen days spent together. It’s deserved.”
Praise for Michael Olise and the Impact of Substitutes
Among the standout performers, Michael Olise earned high marks from the technical staff for his contributions on the pitch. Zidane expressed strong appreciation for the winger’s displays throughout the camp. “I have nothing to say. It’s exceptional what he does,” the coach stated.
The substitutes also injected vital energy into the squad during the second period. Zidane highlighted their decisive impact in turning the match around, noting that “their entry was extraordinary, and it proves that everyone is concerned.”
Emotional Visit from Aimé Jacquet
The evening carried added significance with the presence of former France manager Aimé Jacquet at the stadium. Zidane shared a warm moment with the historic boss who led Les Bleus to World Cup glory in 1998.
“Mémé, it’s benevolence, he loved his players. That’s what he transmitted. Confidence, freedom, and benevolence,” Zidane said. Visibly moved while speaking about his former mentor, he added, “I was happy that he was there to come and see the France team because I know he doesn’t go out much.”
Managing Squad Rotation and Evaluating Ousmane Dembélé
Over the course of 15 days, the coaching staff deployed a broad rotation strategy to evaluate players at the start of their club seasons. Zidane explained that cycling through four competitive lineups was planned from the outset to examine depth across the squad.
Addressing Ousmane Dembélé, who faced whistles from sections of the crowd at the Stade de France following a quiet run of form, Zidane defended the forward’s work rate. “I found Ousmane very good, especially at the start of the match. He was very dynamic. He can play in the three front positions and he is good in all positions. I am satisfied with what he did. He was exemplary with his mates.”
Goalkeeping Decisions and Defensive Options
Guillaume Restes earned his first start in goal, a choice Zidane explained as a proactive measure to give the young goalkeeper valuable exposure alongside advice from Fabien Barthez. The coaching staff also managed injuries in central defense, integrating Leny Yoro following an injury to Ibrahima Konaté.
Looking ahead, Zidane acknowledged that the team must continue refining its attacking approach, specifically by occupying the penalty area more frequently, delivering crosses, and committing more bodies forward to maximize efficiency.
