Nations League: Rayan Cherki shines at the Stade de France

At dusk on Monday evening, the Stade de France was buzzing with supporters' chants as the Blues, under the guidance of Zinedine Zidane, overturned Belgium. Rayan Cherki, who came on in the second half, scored the goal that sealed the victory, giving the French a brilliant end to the gathering.

A decisive turnaround

After an early Belgian goal in the 35th minute by Lukebakio, France equalised in the 77th minute thanks to Doué. Rayan Cherki then found the net in the 81st minute, followed by two decisive assists from Michael Olise that allowed Olise to score in the 88th and 91st minutes, bringing the final score to four‑one.

Cherki's reaction to the press

At the end of the match, the Manchester City playmaker went to the TF1 microphone to send a message to L’Equipe. He said: “My relationship with Olise? Contrary to what some may say, there is a real chemistry. Everything that is said in the press about all the players, you shouldn’t listen to it.” He added that the atmosphere within the squad was “awesome” and could be felt on the pitch.

The comment followed an article published on Sunday by L’Equipe, which mentioned a supposed tension between Cherki and Michael Olise. Cherki formally denied those rumours, emphasizing the cohesion of the squad.

Michael Olise's ball overturns the Blues against Belgium

The match also allowed Zinedine Zidane to experiment with his bench, bringing on Michael Olise, Rayan Cherki, Da Cunha and Désiré Doué in the second half. Those changes invigorated the French attack and were praised by the manager.

With this win, France reaches ten points in Group 1 of the Nations League, sitting at the top ahead of Italy (seven points) and Belgium (six points). The result consolidates the group’s first place and strengthens Zidane’s start at the helm of the national team.

Olise lights up the Blues while Mbappé and Dembélé fade

The Blues finish this first post‑World Cup 2026 gathering with three wins and a draw, giving supporters an optimistic outlook for the rest of the competition.