France rolls on with surprising lineup against the Red Devils

In the Stade de France, where the lights shine brightly on the green pitch, the French national team is preparing for a crucial Nations League match against the Red Devils. The expected starting eleven, presented by, includes names such as Maignan, Koundé, Jacquet, Lacroix, Truffert, Cherki, Koné, Camavinga, Olise, Lepaul and Barcola. The match kicks off at 20:45 on Monday 4 October 2026.

Rotation strategy of Zidane

French national coach Zinédine Zidane announced on Sunday morning that he will rotate, but the lineup remains full of sparkling talents. Maignan stays in goal, while the defence is led by Koundé and Jacquet. In midfield are Cherki, Koné and Camavinga, and the attack is dominated by Olise, Lepaul and Barcola.

Belgium must improvise

The Red Devils are closing a busy international window with this clash in Paris. National coach Mark van Bommel must make a few changes due to the suspensions of Kevin De Bruyne and Youri Tielemans. Van Bommel and Mika Godts will address the press tonight about the adjusted squad.

Belgium travels by bus to the French capital and trains on Sunday morning still in Brussels. The team wants to neutralise France's home advantage and hopes to benefit from the absence of their two key players.

An emotional scene at the Stade de France between Zidane and Jacquet

The match is broadcast live on the website and via Radio 1, with a special LIVE‑stream for fans. The programme also offers, besides football, updates on tennis, Formula 1, basketball and cycling, so sports fans get a complete overview.

In the Nations League table, France sits as group leader with seven points, while Belgium has six points. Italy and Turkey follow respectively in fourth and last place.

Referee Nicholas Walsh will officiate the match, and the official match clock starts at 20:45. After the game, a press conference will follow in which Van Bommel discusses the results and any possible follow‑up actions.