Olise strikes late as France maintain perfect Nations League start

Michael Olise scored in the 88th minute as France defeated Belgium 1-0 in Brussels on Monday to make it two wins from two under new coach Zinedine Zidane. The Bayern Munich midfielder came off the bench in the 77th minute, replacing Liverpool winger Bradley Barcola, with the Group A1 match heading towards a goalless draw. Olise then collected the ball inside his own half and carried it to the edge of Belgium’s penalty area before curling a shot beyond goalkeeper Senne Lammens and into the bottom-left corner.

France had created the clearer opportunities before the decisive goal. Paris Saint-Germain forward Desire Doue hit the crossbar in the first half, while Lucas Da Cunha struck the post early after the interval. The visitors made nine changes to the team that began their 1-0 victory away to Turkey on Friday.

Goalkeeper Mike Maignan and Chelsea defender Maxence Lacroix were the only players to retain their starting places. Da Cunha made his France debut in midfield, while Rennes forward Esteban Lepaul also made his first appearance for the national team. Captain Kylian Mbappe was absent after returning to Real Madrid for treatment on a left-knee injury sustained while scoring against Turkey.

Belgium made two changes from the side that defeated Italy 2-0 in their previous match, which was also new coach Mark van Bommel’s first game at home. France now lead Group A1 with six points, three ahead of Belgium and Italy. Italy moved onto three points after beating Turkey 4-1 on Monday.

Zidane’s next match will be against Italy at the Stade de France on Friday. France will then host Belgium the following Monday.