Olise's late effort gives France victory in Brussels
Belgium lost on Monday at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels in the dying moments 0-1 to France, after substitute Michael Olise scored a beautiful goal in the 88th minute that broke the hearts of the brave Belgians. It was a dramatic end to a draw that remained goalless in the first half.
Pre‑match: choices and first half
Zinédine Zidane chose to put Rayan Cherki, Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembélé on the bench. Kylian Mbappé was absent due to an injury, meaning France started without their star player. Mika Godts earned a starting spot again in the Belgian squad after his fine strike against Italy. Godts made his presence felt in the early phase with plenty of activity and work‑rate.
The first half remained goalless and provided an entertaining encounter between the neighboring nations. Désiré Doué struck the post hard after an individual effort, while Romeo Lavia retrieved a ball from the line. The play swung back and forth in Brussels, but neither side found the breakthrough. It was a draw that raised the tension until halftime.
Second half and decisive goal
After the break, Van Bommel opted for a less dangerous formation, giving France more space. Ousmane Dembélé made his entrance after 67 minutes and tried to unsettle the Belgian defence. Dodi Lukebakio found himself in a promising position, but was denied by goalkeeper Mike Maignan. Shortly afterwards Mika Godts struck the net after a solo effort, but it remained a missed chance.
Belgium brace for French test at Roi Baudouin as van Bommel steps up
In the closing stages, substitute Michael Olise moved into midfield and launched a solo that took him to the left flank. In the 88th minute Olise placed the ball in the left corner with a beautiful GOAL that gave France the victory. The goal broke the hearts of the brave Belgians and provided a dramatic finish. The French fans celebrated the winning moment.
Van Bommel encouraged his team once more for the final quarter, while Romeo Lavia walked to the side and received a huge applause from the Belgian crowd. The fans were clearly pleased with how France was kept in check until the moment of the goal. Despite the effort, Belgium still had to swallow a defeat. The final whistle confirmed the 0‑1 result.
Van Bommel aims to finally beat France as Zidane lines up his B team
Zinédine Zidane showed an outburst of emotion after the loss, after he had won 0‑1 against Turkey on Friday. His team had the chance to control the match, but the late goal changed the narrative. The French victory was crowned by the contribution of the substitutes. The match will be discussed for a long time.
MICHAEL OLISE WHAT A GOAL TO GIVE FRANCE THE WIN!!!!!!