Zidane provokes ovation with masterful control in France's victory

The years seem not to have passed for Zinedine Zidane, who this Tuesday, as France's manager, performed a superb first touch on the side of the Stade de France that sparked an ovation from the crowd as the match against Belgium drew to a close.

Moment of the control

In the ninety‑second minute, with France leading 4‑1, Belgian goalkeeper Maarten Vandevoordt deflected a shot with a massive kick that sent the ball out. Zidane appeared, received the ball and brought it down with a masterful touch. The gesture provoked a tremendous ovation from the stands.

The fans applauded instantly, recognizing the elegance of the former player's movement. The applause lasted for several seconds while the ball remained in play.

Zidane began his adventure in this international break with the French national side. To date he has won three matches and drawn one, against Italy, which he describes as “a positive note”.

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

“On this tour it was planned to make rotations. The players have just started the season and I wanted to see everyone. I wanted to create four different and competitive teams. We have been good although there are things to improve. It is encouraging, I am optimistic,” he said after the victory over Belgium.

The coach acknowledged that there was a lack of sharpness in the first half, “just like in the previous three matches.” “It is one of the things we have to improve for the future, to have more presence in the opponent’s area, to have more players in the area to be more effective,” he assured.

France break a 78-year record, but Zidane remains worried

For the upcoming fixtures, Zidane insists on working on offensive presence and efficiency inside the opponent’s area, with the aim of continuing to improve the team’s performance.