Maxence Lacroix propels the Blues, Zidane rebukes Deschamps

The newcomers seized their chance on Monday against Belgium, delivering the win to the Blues in the 88th minute thanks to a flash of genius. Zinedine Zidane then said that Didier Deschamps and his staff “should be ashamed”, denouncing their selection choices.

A late but decisive performance

After a first unconvincing 0‑1 victory over Turkey three days earlier, the French team delivered a fine performance against Belgium. The goal, scored in the 88th minute, ultimately secured a 0‑1 win.

Maxence Lacroix, the only starter retained

For this second match, Zinedine Zidane decided to rotate the squad, retaining only Maxence Lacroix among the ten outfield players. Lacroix therefore played a central role in the build‑up to the decisive goal.

Promising debuts for several newcomers

Several players earned their first call‑up for the French team, including Andy Diouf on the left flank, Jérémy Jacquet in central defence and Lucas Da Cunha in midfield. While Diouf, deployed in a position that is not his own, sometimes lacked confidence, Jacquet and Da Cunha were commanding.

Zidane blames Deschamps after France's late win over Belgium

The midfielder from Côme, Lucas Da Cunha, delivered a masterclass that thrilled observers and supporters, taking part in 92.8 % of the successful passes in the opponent’s half, an absolute record over the past twenty years.

Zidane praised Da Cunha, stating: “Da Cunha is not a discovery for me. I am really very happy with his performance.” He added that the young player, despite his first call‑up, played “as he usually does, free, like at his club, and he does it very well.”

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Social media erupts

Online posts criticised Didier Deschamps, some reproaching his decision to favour Aïmen Tchouaméni at the expense of Da Cunha. Zidane amplified these jabs, stating that Deschamps “has blood on his hands for not taking him for the World Cup.”